Rewa secures OFC Champions League’s semifinal berth after comeback win over Hekari United

Rewa FC secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over Hekari United FC, sealing their spot in the knockout stage of the 2024 OFC Men’s Champions League. The match, held on a cooler afternoon at Stade Paea in Tahiti, saw Rewa come from behind twice to clinch the win in the final minutes.

Both teams started cautiously, aware of the various scenarios that could determine their advancement to the semi-finals. Hekari United had the better chances in the first half-hour, with Ati Kepo and Rex Naime both failing to convert from promising positions, as their shots were easily saved by Rewa’s goalkeeper Isikeli Sevanaia.

Rewa FC gradually found their footing in the match. A key moment came when Epeli Valevou’s run down the left flank set up Samu Kautoga, whose deft shot floated over Hekari keeper Dave Tomare, giving Rewa the lead.

Facing the prospect of elimination, Hekari United came out strongly in the second half. They were awarded a penalty ten minutes in, which Joseph Joe calmly converted to level the score at 1-1. Seven minutes later, Solomon Rani capitalized on a defensive lapse to put Hekari ahead, slotting the ball past Sevanaia from close range.

Despite Hekari’s lead, they failed to secure the win as Rewa pushed forward in search of an equalizer. Veteran defender Samu Kautoga was instrumental, scoring his second goal of the tournament with a header at the back post, leveling the match once more with just over 15 minutes remaining.

The game seemed destined for a draw until the dying moments. In the 95th minute, Rewa’s Tevita Waranaivalu capitalized on a defensive error by Hekari, driving a well-placed shot past the keeper to secure a 3-2 victory for his team.

With this hard-fought win, Rewa FC advances to the semi-finals, while Hekari United’s campaign ends at the group stage. Kautoga’s experienced presence and timely goals were crucial in Rewa’s triumph, highlighting his significant contribution to their success.