Fiji Kulas dream of reaching the OFC Women’s Nations Cup final was dashed after a hard-fought 2-1 defeat to Papua New Guinea in a tense semi-final clash.
Despite a valiant effort on home soil, the Kulas couldn’t overcome an early surge by Papua New Guinea, who took control of the match with two first-half goals.
PNG player Keren Kalapai opened the scoring in the 26th minute, followed shortly after by a goal from team captain Ramona Padio in the 33rd minute to make it 2-0.
Fiji responded immediately through Narieta Leba, in the 34th minute.
PNG led Fiji 2-1 at halftime.
The second half saw both sides push for a breakthrough.
Kulas efforts to equalize were hampered when Leba received a yellow card in the 66th minute.
Kulas captain Maria Veronica was also shown a yellow card in the 83rd minute.
Despite late pressure from the Kulas, PNG’s defense held firm.
Papua New Guinea now advance to the tournament final where they await the winner of the second semi-final final.
Meanwhile, the second semi-final between the Solomon Islands and Samoa will kick off at 7pm.
The final of the OFC Women’s Nations Cup will take place on Saturday at 7pm at the HFC Bank Stadium.
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