The Solomon Islands national men’s team went down fighting in a 0-3 loss to defending champions New Zealand this afternoon in Port Vila, Vanuatu. This defeat, their second in the campaign following a narrow loss to host Vanuatu over the weekend, ultimately denies the Solomon Islands progression in the OFC Nations Cup 2024.
New Zealand set the tone early, capitalizing on the Solomon Islands’ defensive lapses.
The game had barely settled when Ben Waine struck twice in quick succession. His first goal came just five minutes into the match, catching the Solomon Islands’ defense off guard with a precise tap-in.
Merely five minutes later, Waine doubled the lead with another clinical finish, leaving the Solomon Islands scrambling to regroup.
The early goals underscored New Zealand’s attacking efficiency and the vulnerability of the Solomon Islands’ backline. High pressing, disrupting the Solomon Islands’ attempts to build from the back and forcing errors that led to scoring opportunities.
As the first half progressed, New Zealand continued to dominate possession and create chances.
Veteran forward Kosta Barbarouses added to the Solomon Islands’ woes by scoring the third goal just before halftime. His experience and composure were evident as he slotted home from close range after a scrambling play in front of goal, giving New Zealand a comfortable 3-0 lead at the break.
Coach Jacob Moli made bold changes, bringing off defender Leon Kofana and Allen Peter, and introducing the duo of Raphael Le’ai and Tigi Molea. These substitutions signaled a shift in strategy as the Solomon Islands aimed to claw back into the game.
The changes had an immediate impact on the flow of the match.
Raphael Le’ai and Tigi Molea provided fresh energy and creativity, while Gagame Feni became a constant threat to the New Zealand defense. Feni, known for his dribbling skills and agility, combined well with John Orobulu, creating several promising opportunities.
Despite the increased pressure from the Solomon Islands, they struggled to find the finishing touch.
Feni’s best moment came when he found himself deep in New Zealand’s final third, ready for a first-time shot. Instead, he opted to turn into the box and unleash a left-footed effort, which was well-defended by the alert New Zealand backline.
Le’ai also had a golden chance to reduce the deficit. In a well-executed play, Feni delivered a pinpoint cross into the box, finding Le’ai unmarked. However, Le’ai’s free header went wide.
Again Le’ai near post strike was denied by the post at the injury time.
The valiant efforts and improved performance in the second half, the Solomon Islands were unable to break down the disciplined New Zealand defense. The All-Whites, content with their first-half cushion, managed the game efficiently, maintaining their structure and composure.
-SIFF Media
