New Zealand edges out Fiji to secure spot in FIFA U20 World Cup

New Zealand will face New Caledonia in the final of the OFC U19 Men’s Championship 2024 after a narrow 1-0 semi-final victory over Fiji in Apia. The win also secured New Zealand’s qualification for the FIFA U20 World Cup.

The semi-final match was slow to start, with Fiji dominating possession and creating early chances. Ibraheem Afazal was particularly threatening on the right flank, coming close to giving Fiji the lead with a powerful shot that was well saved by New Zealand’s goalkeeper, Alby Kelly-Heald. Afazal had another chance just before halftime with a free-kick that went over the bar, leaving the score 0-0 at the break.

The second half began with a bang. New Zealand quickly capitalized on a defensive error by Fiji, allowing Ryan Watson to score from inside the box following a corner. Fiji had an immediate chance to equalize when they were awarded a penalty for a handball in the New Zealand box. However, Aidan Malakai Singh’s penalty was saved by Kelly-Heald, who dove to his right to make the stop.

Fiji continued to press and even had the ball in the net through Eparama Moraica, but the goal was disallowed for offside. As the game progressed, New Zealand grew more confident, controlling possession and stifling Fiji’s attempts to get back into the game. Nathan Walker almost doubled New Zealand’s lead late on with a solo run and shot that was saved by Fiji’s Ilisoni Koro.

In the final moments, Fiji had a golden opportunity to equalize from a set-piece, but William Khan headed over from close range. New Zealand held on to their slender lead, securing a place in the final against New Caledonia and a spot in the FIFA U20 World Cup 2025.

Fiji, who narrowly missed out on back-to-back FIFA U20 World Cup appearances following their participation in the 2023 edition in Argentina, will now face Solomon Islands in the third-place playoff.