AS Pirae and AS Magenta battle ends in stalemate

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AS Pirae have cemented their place in the semi-finals of the OFC Men’s Champions League 2024 following a hard-fought goalless draw against New Caledonia’s AS Magenta at Stade Pater.

The host nation side went into the match knowing that a single point would suffice to ensure their progression, having already secured victories in their first two matches. Meanwhile, AS Magenta, buoyed by their resounding 8-0 triumph over Vaivase-tai FC, were eager to build on that momentum.

The first half, characterized by a high tempo but few clear-cut opportunities, saw AS Magenta as the more assertive side. Jean-Marie Hmaloko came closest early on, his curling left-footed free-kick narrowly missing the target.

AS Pirae found it challenging to assert control in the match. Désiré Ngiamba, who had been pivotal in their win against Ifira Black Bird, managed to cut in from the right but only produced a weak shot that was comfortably gathered by AS Magenta’s goalkeeper, Mickael Ulile.

The half’s combative nature was underscored by a rugged tackle from Pirae’s captain Heimano Bourebare, who received a yellow card for his challenge on Antoine Pereira de Carvalho.

The second half saw a more assertive AS Pirae, who nearly broke the deadlock through Yohann Tihoni. Following some slick interplay, Tihoni found himself in space on the right side of the penalty area, but his shot skewed wide of the near post.

AS Magenta, undeterred, continued to press and came agonizingly close with ten minutes to go. A cross from the right was inadvertently redirected onto the crossbar by Matatia Paama, leaving Pirae’s goalkeeper, Francois Decoret, helpless.

In the dying moments, Magenta had a final opportunity to clinch victory when a deflected ball fell to Rodrigue Walone, who could only steer his effort over the bar, much to the relief of the home crowd.

The draw places AS Pirae at the top of their group, guaranteeing their semi-final berth. AS Magenta, on the other hand, must now avoid defeat against Ifira Black Bird in their final group match on Monday to join Pirae in the last four.

As the tournament progresses, AS Pirae will look to build on their solid defensive performances, while AS Magenta will aim to channel the attacking prowess that saw them score eight goals against Vaivase-tai FC to secure their semi-final spot.