It would be New Zealand’s first participation since the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. Liberato Cacace, a pro at FC Empoli, scored the decisive goal for the New Zealanders against Tahiti in Serie A in the 70th minute.
Solomon Islands advanced to the final of Oceania’s World Cup qualifiers thanks to a 3-2 win over Papua New Guinea. The final match between New Zealand and Solomon Islands will be played on March 30th.
Alwin Hou brace for Solomon Islands
Papua New Guinea took a 1-0 lead against the Solomon Islands (23′) thanks to a goal by Alwin Komolong, who once played for Fortuna Köln and Stuttgarter Kickers in Germany.
The goal was a wake-up call for the home side. Alwin Hou scored the deserved equalizer for Solomon Islands in the 33rd minute. Hou gave the Solomons the lead after the break with a volley (65′), then Raphael Ohanua Lea’i Jr (71′) scored to make it 3-1. Ati Kepo only managed the late goal (88th).
Source: sid/dpa/red
