New Zealand secured its record ninth OFC U-16 Men’s Championship title at Stade Pater in Papeete today, defeating a determined Fijian team 3-1 in a thrilling final.
The team, coached by Martin Bullock, took an early lead in the 3rd minute with a goal from Nathan Martin. However, Fiji responded in the 28th minute when Farhaan Khan sent a long free kick from just inside New Zealand’s half into the box. New Zealand goalkeeper Joseph Chalabi miscalculated the ball, allowing it to sail over him and find the net, bringing the score to 1-1 at halftime.
In the 56th minute, both teams were reduced to 10 players after Veleni Rasorewa from Fiji and Nathan Martin from New Zealand were sent off by referee David Yareboinen following a clash.
Just five minutes later, New Zealand regained the advantage when Fiji failed to clear a corner kick, allowing Luke Brooke-Smith to head the ball into the goal. Justin Cardoso then secured the win for New Zealand with a well-placed shot that left goalkeeper Isoa Lutui with no chance.
Both teams have qualified for next year’s FIFA U17 World Cup in Qatar.