Fiji pip Tahiti as New Caledonia stun hosts Solomon Islands in OFC Under-16 men's opener

In the opening round of the 2025 Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) Under-16 Men’s Championship in the Solomon Islands, there was plenty of action on both ends of the field.

Fiji triumphed over Tahiti 2-1, New Caledonia stunned the hosts 5-2, and defending champions New Zealand proved too strong for Sāmoa 5-0, while the Cook Islands and Papua New Guinea ended their match with a 1-all draw.

Fiji's victory was inspired by their captain, Maikah Dau. The Fijians took the lead in the 20th minute when striker Saula Muatini cleverly connected with a free kick, setting up team-mate Arnav Chand, who scored from close range.

Tahiti fought back quickly, with Sialesi Vatanitawake making a crucial defensive play to keep Fiji from extending their lead.

Muatini continued to be a threat, nearly scoring again, but his efforts were thwarted by Tahiti's goalkeeper, Titouan Courtois.

As the first half wrapped up, Fiji's goalkeeper Kirikiti Biu made a fantastic save to keep the score at 1-0.

But the game took a turn in the 60th minute when a handball by Kanav Gounder resulted in a penalty for Tahiti. Their captain, Kahi Morgant, scored from the spot, levelling the match.

Both teams searched for a winning goal, but it was Dau’s powerful free kick that ultimately secured the victory for Fiji, giving them all three points.

In another thrilling match, New Caledonia staged an incredible comeback to defeat the Solomon Islands 5-2.

Papua New Guinea’s Toka Goro, in yellow, and Cook Islands' Temata Rouru, right, tussle for the ball at the OFC U16 Men’s Championship in Honiara. Photo/OFC/DJ Mills/Phototek

New Caledonia started strong, scoring in the 8th minute, but the Solomon Islands quickly matched them with a penalty goal from Junior Sam.

The home team gained the lead with another goal from Junior Ben just before halftime. But everything changed in the second half.

New Caledonia equalised shortly after the break and then took the lead again through a well-placed header.

With Solomon Islands pushing for a comeback, New Caledonia capitalised on the open space, scoring two more times to finish the game on top.

Looking ahead, the next round of matches will feature Papua New Guinea against Tahiti on Wednesday, followed by Fiji versus the Cook Islands. On Thursday, New Zealand will face New Caledonia, and the Solomon Islands will play against Sāmoa.

The tournament ends on August 30.