Bikiliki lost to Tahiti in Beach Soccer Nations Cup 2023 final
Solomon Islands national beach soccer team, Bilikiki head coach Gideon Omokirio believes more work is to be done in the football code after yet another dismal shot at the Oceania beach soccer crown going down to reigning Champions Tahiti 0-7 at the Beach Soccer Nations Cup 2023 final today.
Bilikiki were punished early in the opening period when a clinical Tiki Toa capitalized en route to their 7th title.
For Omokirio, it was their opening focus was stunned allowing the goals to be conceded in front of a packed Tina Hau stadium in Papeete.
“I think we were overconfident coming in for the final,” Omokirio told OFC Media in a post-match interview.
“We fought back too late. We didn’t take our chances when we needed it the most in such a final – that’s the difference and they utilize theirs.
The Solomon Islands players were stunned but they were able to regroup and put the former world goalkeeper of the year Jonathan Torohia under pressure on a couple of occasions.
Having been a four-time Champion the head coach believes there’s still room for improvement next year.
“We will come back stronger,” Omokirio said.
“Congrats to Tahiti, they kept their consistency and accuracy throughout the 36 minutes. It’s now up to us to go back and do our homework.
“Going back home we need to work extra and have active leagues and competition so that we can come back stronger next year, and I believe we will still up to challenge Tahiti again.
Tahiti secured their place representing Oceania at the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup to be played in Dubai in February.
-SIFF Media
