Rewa sends Solomon Warrirors home with an impressive comeback win in OFC Champions League

Fijian champions Rewa FC continued their strong start in the OFC Champions League 2024 with a thrilling 3-2 comeback victory over Solomon Warriors on the second matchday of Group A, held at Stade Paea in Tahiti. This victory follows their impressive 2-2 draw with defending champions Auckland City in their opening match.

The match began with Solomon Warriors taking the lead early. In the 15th minute, captain Gagame Feni capitalized on a sharp midfield interception by Jaygray Sipakana, racing through and confidently slotting the ball past Rewa’s goalkeeper, Isikeli Sevanaia. Feni came close to doubling the lead with a long-range effort that narrowly missed the target, keeping Rewa in the game.

Rewa responded decisively with two goals in quick succession just before halftime, turning the game on its head. Influential midfielder Setareki Hughes drove forward and found space inside the Warriors’ penalty area, cutting back onto his left foot and firing a low shot into the near corner to equalize.

Minutes later, a perfectly timed through ball found Samu Kautoga, who made no mistake in sending a low shot past the goalkeeper, giving Rewa a 2-1 lead at halftime.

In the second half, Rewa extended their lead further. Josaia Sela timed his run perfectly, rounded the goalkeeper, and calmly side-footed home to make it 3-1, securing what seemed to be a comfortable lead.

However, Solomon Warriors fought back. Gagame Feni scored his second goal of the match with a well-placed header at the back post, making it 3-2 and setting up a nervy final fifteen minutes. Despite a late chance for Feni, who fired over the bar from inside the area, Rewa held on for the victory.

Rewa FC now sits with four points from their first two matches and looks forward to a crucial final group stage match against Papua New Guinea’s Hekari United later this week. A win would secure their spot in the semifinals. Solomon Warriors, meanwhile, are confirmed to exit early, with a final match against Auckland City remaining.

Rodick Singh’s side has shown resilience , particularly through standout performances from Setareki Hughes, Samu Kautoga, and Josaia Sela. Their journey so far underscores their potential to make a significant impact in the tournament.

As Rewa prepares for their decisive match against Hekari United, the team and their supporters are hopeful of continuing their impressive run and securing a place in the knockout stages of the OFC Champions League 2024.