The Solomon Islands have yet to register a win with hopes to defeat Papua New Guinea in their final appearance at the FIFA World Cup 2026 Oceania Qualifiers (Pool A) in Port Moresby.
Coach Joshua Smith said it was a tough turning point following their much-anticipated match against New Caledonia leading 2-1 at half time to losing 3-2 at full time.
“We started slow in the second half with lack of concentration and got punished by the NCL side for our mistakes. The momentum shift in this match was not as expected with two of their goals scored through penalties,” Smith said.
He said despite the match ending with another loss at the PNG Football Stadium, they would go back to reset in the next 48 hours to get their basics right ahead of Sunday.
“We have no excuse for our loss. However, we can only go back to reset and be mentally and physically prepared for the game against PNG,” he added.
Smith said the team was composed of very young players, most of which had made their debut either in Fiji last month and in PNG on Thursday for the national side led by the experienced goal keeper Philip Mango as captain.
“We have a lot of young talents, most of whom have debuted for the national team in this qualifier. It is a growing opportunity for them to learn as much as they can and get that exposure apart from their national competition back home,” said Smith.
“Our skipper Philip has done well despite the two goals taken by NCL through penalties in front of the box, leading the young team and hopefully we get to see the players step up as well come Sunday.”
Meanwhile, Smith said it was a great turnout as the Solomon Islands community in PNG swarmed in numbers to support their fellow countrymen in their first PNG match on Thursday.
The Solomon Islands chances have been reduced following losses in Suva, against then hosts Fiji and now against New Caledonia, they can only hope to beat PNG and record a win in this qualifier.
PC: Trevor Mallen Photography
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