Host nation Samoa triumphed over Papua New Guinea in their opening Group B match of the OFC U-19 Men’s Championship in Apia today.
Captain Pharrell Trainor netted Samoa’s first goal, giving them a narrow lead at the half-time break. Trainor struck again in the 47th minute, extending Samoa’s lead. Although Papua New Guinea’s Nalau Moses narrowed the gap with a goal, Juan Gobbi’s 82nd-minute strike secured a decisive victory for the hosts.
This victory sets up an exciting clash for Samoa against reigning champions New Zealand on Tuesday, while Papua New Guinea will be looking to secure a positive result against New Caledonia.