The Solomon Islands have clinched the top spot in Group A and secured a place in the semi-finals following a 1-0 victory over Tahiti in the final group stage match of the OFC U-19 Men’s Championship in Samoa today.
Both teams entered the match with clear objectives: a win or even a draw would ensure the Solomon Islands’ progression, while Tahiti required a win to secure their place in the semi-finals.
After a goalless first half, the decisive moment came in the second period when Jimson Abana made a move towards the byline and cut the ball back for James Laena, who fired it beyond the goalkeeper.
The victory marks the Solomon Islands’ third consecutive win in the tournament, making it through the group stage without conceding a single goal.
They now await the results of tomorrow’s Group B matches to determine their semi-final opponent. Tahiti, finishing third in the group, will participate in the fifth-place playoff on Tuesday.