Katukatu books semi-final spot with 3-1 win over Tahiti
BY JOSES SAREN
Solomon Islands has booked their place in the semi-finals of the OFC U-16 Men’s Championship after a deserved 3-1 victory over Tahiti in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, on Sunday, setting up a last-four meeting with Fiji.
According to a statement from the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC), both sides knew victory would keep their title hopes alive, with Solomon Islands adopting an aggressive high-pressing approach from the outset and looking to exploit the pace of Greggy Gau and George Le’ai on the counterattack.
Le’ai broke the deadlock in the 26th minute, latching onto a pass from Walcott Kona before bursting past Tahiti defender Steevy Peckett and firing a right-footed strike into the top corner to send Solomon Islands into the break with the lead.
The advantage was doubled three minutes into the second half when Gau raced beyond the Tahiti defence and slipped the ball to Jayer Makarani, who drilled a low finish into the near post from outside the area.
Tahiti responded through Esdras Jamet in the 53rd minute, turning home Akahi Paoa’s corner to cut the deficit and threaten a comeback.
Solomon Islands held firm, controlling possession and frustrating Tahiti’s build-up play, before Gau settled the contest in stoppage time. Released by a long clearance from Soka, the forward surged clear of the defence and slotted home to complete the 3-1 win.
Man-of-the-match Le’ai credited the team’s preparation and unity for the win.
“Firstly, I want to thank God for the strength and energy He gave the boys to work together.
“Thank you to the boys for following the game plan the coach gave us. We’re looking forward to the semi-final,” he said.
On the Fiji clash ahead, Le’ai said the squad will focus on hard work and cohesion.
“For the semi-final against Fiji, all the boys will work hard and work together as we look forward to the next game,” he said.
He also has a message for supporters back home.
“Thank you to the fans back in Solomon Islands for your prayers and support,” he said.
The result sends Solomon Islands through to a semi-final with Fiji, who topped Group A despite a 3-0 defeat to hosts Papua New Guinea in their final pool match, with PNG advancing as runners-up.
Solomon Islands will face Fiji in the semi-final on Wednesday, 22 July, kicking off at 4:00pm local time at the PNG Football Stadium.
The winner, runner-up and third place teams under the OFC U-16 Men’s Championship will automatically qualify for the FIFA U-17 World Cup 2027 in Qatar.
Photo credit: OFC
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