PNG hold off New Caledonia to secure Semifinal spot

Papua New Guinea advanced to the OFC U-16 Men’s Championship Semifinal after claiming a gripping 1-0 win over New Caledonia on Wednesday, 15 July 2026, at PNG Football Stadium in Port Moresby.

PNG aimed for the semifinal spot, while New Caledonia sought their first win in Group A, making this matchup physical and intense, with PNG emerging with a 1-0 victory in an epic finish.

Despite both teams creating chances to score in the first half, the goals went begging, leaving the halftime score at 0-0.

After 72 minutes, PNG broke the deadlock, with Iga Steven scoring a match-winning goal and helping the home side advance to the semifinal.

PNG coach Mathias Apo said it was a tough game, praising the players for sticking to the process and crediting New Caledonia for giving them a good challenge.

“I want to give credit to New Caledonia. They were the better side, and we knew that they would not be easy for us. They knew us - they watched our game and came out really strong,” Apo commented.

“The boys (PNG) stuck to our game plan, so I want to give credit to my boys for getting the 3 points.”

Coach Apo’s halftime message was simple: “Stick to our game plan and opportunities will come.” 

PNG’s final Group A match will be against Fiji, with coach Apo describing the Fijians as a quality side and noting that PNG needs to work hard to match the Bula boys. 

The unbeaten PNG side will go head-to-head with the undefeated Fijian outfit on Saturday, 18 July 2026, at PNG Football Stadium. Kick off at 4:00 pm.