In the opening game of the OFC Champions League qualifying stage, Veitongo FC from Tonga faced Tupapa Maraerenga from the Cook Islands. The match took place at the Apia, Samoa, and it was an intense encounter between the two teams. However, it was Tupapa Maraerenga who came out on top with a 1-0 victory.
The only goal of the match was scored by Taylor Saghabi, who is a Cook Islands football legend. He had come all the way from Australia to represent Tupapa in the tournament, and he proved to be a crucial player for his team. Saghabi scored from the spot kick at the 9th minute of play after a penalty conceded by Veitongo’s Siaki Huni. This early goal gave Tupapa the momentum they needed to control the game.
Veitongo tried to make a comeback and had their best chance from a free-kick taken by Tuia Falepapalangi, which was saved by Tupapa Maraerenga’s keeper Manaariki Pierre. However, Veitongo’s chances were reduced when Siaki Huni was sent off after receiving a second yellow card at the 50th minute of play. Veitongo played most of the second half with ten players, which made it difficult for them to create any real chances.
Tupapa Maraerenga also had some good chances, especially from the feet of Ngametua Tuakana, who missed a clear chance just in front of Veitongo’s goalkeeper Semisi Otukolo. Grover Harmon, Tupapa midfielder, played a major role for his team in securing the 1-0 win for his side. You can watch the highlights of the match by clicking here.
Veitongo missed their most important player Hemaloto Polovili, who was unable to play due to illness. This absence could have been a factor in their defeat, but they will have a chance to bounce back in their next match.
In conclusion, the match between Veitongo FC and Tupapa Maraerenga was an exciting one, with both teams showing great determination and skill. However, it was Tupapa who emerged victorious with a 1-0 win, thanks to Taylor Saghabi’s goal from the penalty spot. Tupapa’s victory puts them in a good position to progress to the next stage of the tournament, while Veitongo will need to regroup and come back stronger in their next match.
Oceania Football Center 