Solomon Islands surrender last-minute goal as New Caledonia clinches FIFA U20 World Cup spot

In a thrilling semi-final at the OFC U19 Men’s Championship, New Caledonia secured their place in the final and a coveted spot in the FIFA U20 World Cup 2025 in Chile with a dramatic 3-2 comeback victory against Solomon Islands.

New Caledonia started the match strongly, with early attempts from Paul Qaeze and Louis Brunet keeping Solomon Islands’ goalkeeper Gideon Abidan busy. Qaeze, one of the standout players of the tournament, opened the scoring with a stunning strike from the left-hand side of the penalty area, leaving Abidan with no chance.

Despite their early lead, New Caledonia’s advantage was short-lived. Solomon Islands equalized just ten minutes later when a corner found defender Gordon Iro, whose header deflected past goalkeeper Gabin Rachel. Solomon Islands then took the lead just before halftime when another corner caused confusion in New Caledonia’s defense, allowing Jimson Abana to score from 12 yards out.

The second half saw Solomon Islands nearly extend their lead, with Paul Francis’ effort hitting the crossbar. The match grew increasingly physical, with both teams matching each other’s intensity. New Caledonia’s persistent pressure paid off with just two minutes of regular time remaining, as Antoine Simane capitalized on a loose ball in the area to level the score at 2-2, sending the match into extra time.

As fatigue set in during extra time, both teams adopted a more direct approach. With penalties looming, New Caledonia found the decisive goal two minutes before the end of extra time. Kapone Xulue struck to clinch a dramatic 3-2 victory, securing New Caledonia’s place in the final and their qualification for the FIFA U20 World Cup.

The Solomon Islands’ level of play dropped in the second half and extra time, allowing New Caledonia’s high balls to be effective. Despite a strong start and a lead at halftime, they couldn’t hold off the resilient New Caledonia side, who ultimately emerged victorious.