A last-minute goal secures the win for New Zealand against Fiji in the OFC U-16 Women's Championship 2023. Photo: Christophe Fotozz, Tahiti
New Zealand have clinched the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) U-16 Women’s Championship after a dramatic last-minute winner in Papeete.
The win means New Zealand have confirmed their place at the 2024 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup to be held in the Dominican Republic.
With only seconds remaining, Katie Pugh sealed the title for the Kiwis to break Fijian hearts, who had put in a herculean effort.
As expected, New Zealand started the brighter and dominated possession in the opening stages. To their credit, Fiji were resolute and well-drilled and it was notable that the Kiwis were struggling to string passes together in the manner seen earlier in the tournament.
Katie Pugh went closest to opening the score in the first-half when played through the centre but her left-footed shot cannoned back off the post and Fiji escaped.
There was a scrappiness nature to most of the opening 45 minutes, which appeared to suit Angeline Chua’s Fiji side as they kept New Zealand at bay. Goalkeeper Rosalain Sarahphina quick off her mark on a number of occasions, diving at the feet of her opponents to snuff out any attack.
Pugh had another half-chance late in the period, rounding Sarahphina but being unable to convert when the angle narrowed and Fiji managed to clear.
Source: RNZ
