Degrumelle and Teaonui Tehau goals seal Tahiti win over Samoa at OFC Nations Cup

Tahiti has made a strong start in the OFC Men’s Nations Cup 2024, securing a vital 2-0 win against Samoa in their debut match held in Suva. The Tahitian team, led by coach Samuel Garcia, displayed early dominance with two first-half goals, setting the pace for the rest of the match. The first breakthrough came swiftly, just four minutes into the game, when French-based Matéo Degrumelle skillfully intercepted a through ball from Manuarii Shan and managed to slip his shot under Samoan goalkeeper Joel Bartley’s grasp.

Degrumelle continued to be a formidable presence on the right flank for Tahiti, nearly assisting in a second goal shortly after. His cross to the back post found Shan, who unfortunately could not convert, sending his shot wide of the target.

The crucial second goal for Tahiti came not long after Degrumelle’s near-assist. Captain Teaonui Tehau capitalized on a cross from Eddy Kaspard that initially bypassed Ariiura Labaste, doubling Tahiti’s lead with a composed finish.

Samoa, despite the setback, began to find their footing towards the end of the first half. Greg Siamoa nearly reduced the deficit after executing a neat one-two to break free inside the box, only to be thwarted by a quick reaction from Tahitian goalkeeper François Decoret. Moments later, Dauntae Mariner’s powerful left-footed strike rattled the crossbar, narrowly missing the opportunity to bring Samoa back into the game.

The second half saw a noticeable decrease in pace and intensity, likely due to the hot and humid conditions in Suva. Despite the slowed tempo, Tahiti continued to seek opportunities to extend their lead but were unable to significantly challenge Bartley in Samoa’s goal.

With this victory, Tahiti secures an ideal start to their Nations Cup campaign. Meanwhile, Samoa will aim to bounce back in their next match on Wednesday, where they are set to face the co-hosts, Fiji.