The Solomon Islands U16 national team showcased impressive character as they overturned a first-half deficit to secure a 3-1 victory over Samoa in their Group B encounter at Tahiti’s OFC Men’s U16 Championship.
Trailing by a goal at halftime, the Solomon Islands responded with a stirring second-half performance.
The turning point came midway through the final 45 minutes when substitute Allen Makana, who had replaced Patty Kenimoi, capitalized on a rebound from the Samoan goalkeeper to level the score. Just a minute later, captain Kennedy Sihiu displayed his leadership qualities by firing from close range to put the Solomon Islands ahead, making it 2-1.
The quickfire goals shifted the momentum decisively in favor of the Solomon Islands, who were determined to bounce back after their opening group loss.
The victory was sealed in style eight minutes from full time when Ashley Kwaimasia produced a moment of magic, curling a stunning effort beyond the reach of the Samoan goalkeeper
The result gives the Solomon Islands their first points of the tournament, and a final group match against New Caledonia next week.
