FIJI were forced to settle for a two-all draw against hosts Vanuatu on Wednesday after a lively contest that swung back and forth throughout the 90 minutes.
The visitors took an early lead through an unfortunate own goal by the Vanuatu defence, giving Fiji the perfect start. The hosts responded well, however, with Azaria Soroman finding the equaliser to bring Vanuatu level and energise the home crowd.
Fiji restored their advantage before the break when veteran striker Roy Krishna showed his class to finish clinically and make it 2–1 heading into halftime.
But Vanuatu refused to back down. After the restart, they pressed higher and created sustained pressure, which eventually paid off when Alex Saniel struck the equaliser to make it 2–2.
Both teams pushed for a late winner in an open and competitive second half, but neither could find the decisive goal as the match ended all square.
A well-contested encounter that showcased attacking intent from both sides and a strong second-half fightback from the home team.
Scorers:
Fiji – Own goal, Roy Krishna
Vanuatu – Azaria Soroman, Alex Saniel.
