New Zealand and Samoa dominate in Group B openers at OFC U-19 Men’s Championship

The OFC U-19 Men’s Championship continued in Apia, Samoa, with defending champions New Zealand and hosts Samoa securing impressive victories in their Group B debut matches. New Zealand showcased their dominance with a 3-0 win over New Caledonia, while Samoa celebrated a famous 3-1 triumph against Papua New Guinea.

In the first match of the day, New Zealand kicked off their Group B campaign with a commanding performance against New Caledonia. Auckland City attacker Stipe Ukich set the tone early, registering two shots on target. New Caledonia’s goalkeeper was initially up to the challenge, but their defense eventually succumbed to pressure.

New Zealand broke the deadlock in the 18th minute when New Caledonia defender Jythrim Upa was penalized for handball in the box. Ukich confidently converted the penalty, leaving goalkeeper Gabin Rachel helpless. Minutes later, Ukich found the net again, but the goal was disallowed due to a foul in the box.

The match saw some intense moments, including a dangerous tackle by Upa on Tze Xuan Loke, which resulted in a yellow card and Loke’s early exit due to an ankle injury. Ukich continued to torment New Caledonia’s defense, setting up Ryan Watson for a simple tap-in to double New Zealand’s lead.

Shortly after halftime, New Zealand extended their advantage to 3-0. Daniel Makowem delivered a precise cross to Keegan Kelly, who skillfully guided the ball past Rachel. Despite New Caledonia’s efforts to respond, including a near-miss by Joseph Hnaissilin, New Zealand maintained control and secured a comfortable victory.

Both teams now look forward to their next matches, with New Zealand set to face hosts Samoa, and New Caledonia taking on Papua New Guinea.

In the second match of the day, hosts Samoa delighted their fans with a 3-1 win over Papua New Guinea. Papua New Guinea had a golden opportunity to take the lead early on, but striker Johnson Belle missed a crucial chance from close range.

Samoa’s German-based striker Pharrell Trainor was a constant threat, but Papua New Guinea’s defense managed to keep him at bay for most of the first half. As the break approached, Samoa’s captain Trainor opened the scoring with a composed finish past Daniel Sakora. Trainor nearly doubled his tally moments later, but Sakora made a crucial save.

Papua New Guinea responded with a counterattack, with Jason Goble-Lote’s effort denied by Samoa’s goalkeeper Joel Bartley. In the second half, Trainor struck again, dribbling past two defenders before slotting the ball into the bottom corner to make it 2-0.

Papua New Guinea quickly pulled one back through Nalau Moses, whose deflected shot found the back of the net. The match continued at a frenetic pace, with both teams creating chances. Samoa’s Juan Gobbi sealed the victory with a powerful shot past Sakora, and he nearly added a second in added time.

Samoa’s win sets up an intriguing clash with New Zealand, while Papua New Guinea will aim to bounce back against New Caledonia.

The second day of the OFC U-19 Men’s Championship showcased the talent and determination of the competing teams, promising more exciting matches to come as the tournament progresses.