🇫🇷 Français
On Monday, 21st March, the New Caledonia national football team took on their Pacific Island neighbors, the Tahiti national team, in a friendly match held at Stade Pater, Pirae in Tahiti. The match was closely contested, with both teams showing their skills and determination to win. Both sides are looking forward to the Pacific Games to be played this year in Honiara, Solomon Islands.
The match started with both teams trying to gain control of the midfield, and there were some early chances at both ends of the field. However, it was not until the second half that the game came to life, with Makalu Xowi of AS Temanava breaking the deadlock for New Caledonia in the 69th minute. Xowi, who plays for Tahiti’s Ligue 1 side, AS Temanava, showed his class with a well-taken goal that gave his team the lead.
Despite the setback, Tahiti continued to press forward, looking for an equalizer. However, their efforts were in vain as New Caledonia held firm at the back, with goalkeeper Warren Hlupa making some crucial saves to keep his team in the lead. And as the game approached its final minutes, AS Magenta’s William Rokuad put the game to bed with a late goal in the 88th minute to secure the victory for New Caledonia.
The win was a significant boost for the New Caledonia team, who had come into the game as underdogs. It was also a reminder of their potential to compete against some of the best teams in the Pacific region. For Tahiti, it was a disappointing result, but they will have a chance to make amends when they face New Caledonia again on Friday, 24th March.
The friendly match between New Caledonia and Tahiti was an exciting and closely contested game. The win for New Caledonia was well-deserved, and it will give them confidence going into the rematch on Friday. Fans will be eagerly anticipating the next game, as they look forward to seeing some more entertaining football.
Oceania Football Center 