18 July 2026
Samoa and New Caledonia shared the
points in a 1-1 draw in the final Group A fixture of the OFC
U-16 Men’s Championship, with both sides searching for their
first win of the tournament.
Media via Phototek)
New
Caledonia created the better early chances, with Lyssandro
Martinez heading narrowly over the crossbar after a
dangerous delivery into the penalty area.
Samoa struck
first in the 30th minute through Te Koha Gabriel Schick. A
perfectly weighted through ball from midfield sent the
forward racing into the box. His initial effort was parried
by goalkeeper Jaerson Pian, but Schick reacted quickest to
head the rebound into the net and give Samoa a 1-0
lead.
Moments later, Samoa’s task became significantly
harder after they were reduced to ten players following a
red card, forcing them to defend their advantage for more
than half the match.
New Caledonia dominated
possession after the break and continued to press for an
equaliser. Martinez went close again with a looping effort
before Kevin Hoang tested Samoan goalkeeper Moemanatu after
good work from Matahi Wimian.
The pressure finally
paid off in the 74th minute when New Caledonia were awarded
a penalty after Bevan Jr Kapisi brought down Maelann Pearou
in the box. Centre-back Steevy Andrew confidently converted
from the spot, blasting his effort down the middle to earn
New Caledonia a share of the spoils.
Samoa: 1 (Te Koha
Gabriel SCHICK 30′)
New Caledonia: 1 (Steevy ANDREW
74′ pen)
HT:
1-0
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