In an exciting and closely contested match at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva, Suva and Rewa drew 1-1 in the OFC Champions League national play-off. Both teams fought hard for a win, but ultimately had to settle with a draw.
The first half of the game was largely uneventful, with both teams struggling to create clear chances. However, the game came to life in the second half, with Suva taking the lead in the 61st minute through a well-placed shot by Azariah Soromon, the Vanuatu international striker. Soromon had been a constant threat throughout the game, and he finally found the back of the net with a powerful strike that left Rewa goalkeeper stranded.
However, Suva could not defende their lead until the final whistle as Rewa refused to give up and continued to push forward in search of an equaliser. In the dying moments of the game, a cross from the right wing hit the post, and the ball rebounded towards Samuela Nabenia, who made no mistake in slotting it home to level the scores at 1-1.
The goal was a huge relief for Rewa, who had been trailing for most of the second half, and it sparked wild celebrations among the team and their fans. Suva, on the other hand, were left to rue missed opportunities as they failed to hold on to their lead and secure a win.
It was a hard-fought and entertaining game between two evenly matched teams. Both sides can take heart from their performances, but will need to improve if they hope to progress further in the OFC Champions League.
On Sunday (26th Feb) the decisive encounter between the two sides will take place at Ratu Cakobau Park – the winner will seal a spot at OFC Champions League group stage to represent Fiji. The group stage will be played this May in Vanuatu.
Oceania Football Center 