Solomon Islands national team wrapped up their FIFA World Cup 26™ Oceania Qualifiers campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 victory against hosts Papua New Guinea in Port Moresby.
Following their two narrow losses in Group A to Fiji and New Caledonia initially the Josh Smith side end on a winning note – a first win under the Australian coach.
Solomon Islands made a dominating performance over the host side when left defender, Junior David found the breakthrough before half-time with a well-executed strike.
The second-half was marked by intensity but lacked clear chances from both ends. Micah Lea’alafa then extended the lead in the 64’ minute – his first touch of ball coming on as a substitute for Rovu Boyers.
Raphael Le’ai came close to further the lead from a well-worked free-kick set piece, but his low effort rattled the base of the post.
PNG came back into the match striking late in additional time as Solomon Islands held on to secure the win which puts them third in Group A with 3 points behind group winners New Caledonia (7) and runners-up Fiji (5) who made it into the semi-finals of the Oceania Qualifiers.
