Fiji has moved a step closer to qualifying for the 2026 U-17 World Cup in Qatar after a dominant 5-0 victory over the Cook Islands in their second Group A match of the OFC U-16 Men’s Championship in Honiara.
With one crucial group match still to play against Papua New Guinea (PNG) on Saturday, the Sunil Kumar-coached side has already secured a place in the semi-finals, with two wins from their opening two fixtures.
Saturday’s clash will decide who tops Group A, with PNG sitting second on four points after thrashing Tahiti 6-1.
“We are happy with the performance. The boys actually did the job in the first half, and we just had to manage the second half since we still have one group match to go,” Kumar said after the win.
“Our values coming into this match were unity and teamwork, and that was the main focus for the boys. Even the players on the bench gave positive energy to those on the pitch”.
The coach also thanked all supporters for backing the team and hopes for more support in their upcoming matches
A brace each from Ryan Achari and Saula Muatini, along with a goal from skipper Maikah Dau, sealed the comfortable win for Fiji.
By TIMOTHY INIFIRI JNR
Solomon Star, Honiara
