Solomon Islands soar with scintillating 3-0 triumph over Fiji in OFC U-19 Championship

Solomon Islands took a significant step towards securing a semi-final spot with a commanding 3-0 victory over Fiji in the OFC U-19 Men’s Championship 2024.

The stakes were high, with both teams aware that a win would put them on six points and on the path to the final four. The match began with intensity, as James Laena of the Solomon Islands had the first notable chance, but his shot flew over the crossbar due to an unfortunate bobble.

Jayroll Patty’s deflected shot soon after forced a save from Fiji’s goalkeeper Illisoni Koro, who parried it to Laena, but once again, the striker couldn’t convert. Laena continued to be a threat, breaking through the offside trap, only to send his shot straight at Koro.

Fiji’s first real opportunity came in the 21st minute when captain Penisoni Tirau went one-on-one with Solomon Islands’ Gideon Abidan, but he failed to chip it over the onrushing goalkeeper.

The Solomon Islands’ pressure finally paid off just before halftime. Billy Afi scored a beautiful free kick from the edge of the box, placing it perfectly into the bottom corner. The team doubled their lead just before the break, with Jimson Abana rising above two defenders to head the ball over Koro and into the net.

The second half saw the humid conditions slow the pace, allowing Fiji to find some footing in the match. Substitute Eparama Moraica provided a spark, creating a golden opportunity for Tirau, who laid it back to Moraica, only for him to miss from close range.

Solomon Islands sealed their emphatic victory in the 83rd minute when Abana scored a stunning scissor kick, his second goal of the match. This triumph places the Solomon Islands in a strong position heading into their final group stage match against Tahiti on Thursday. Fiji, on the other hand, will look to regroup for their final match against Vanuatu.