Fiji sealed their place at the FIFA U-17 Men’s World Cup in Qatar with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Papua New Guinea in the third-place playoff of the OFC U-16 Men’s Championship 2025.
The decisive moment came in the first half when lively winger Achari, who had been a constant threat on the right, combined with Jack Raiyawa before weaving past two defenders and calmly slotting into the bottom corner.
From there, Fiji’s resilience was tested as Papua New Guinea grew into the game, with Boas Tommy and his strike partners creating dangerous moments.
Goalkeeper Kirikiti Biu and defender Koopah Singh anchored a disciplined backline, repelling multiple attacks.
Second-half substitute Zafir Ali added spark to Fiji’s attack, but the team’s focus shifted to composure and defensive steel.
Despite relentless late pressure from Papua New Guinea, Fiji held firm to clinch third place and confirm their ticket to Qatar.