Future Mataliki have reignited their OFC Women’s Championship campaign in dramatic fashion, coming from behind to snatch a vital 2-1 victory over American Samoa in their second Group B clash in Samoa.
After a tough 4-0 defeat to New Zealand in their opening match, the Future Mataliki showed resilience and determination to earn their first three points of the tournament keeping their hopes alive for a spot in the semi-finals.
It was American Samoa who started the brighter of the two sides. They nearly broke the deadlock within the first 10 minutes, creating a couple of early chances. Tonga’s first real threat came in the 14th minute when Polini Ta’ofi let fly with a left-footed strike that was comfortably saved by the goalkeeper.
In the 20th minute, American Samoa took a deserved lead. Fourteen-year-old Diamond Joung dazzled the defence with a composed move, cutting in off her left before unleashing a powerful right-footed shot that beat Temaleti Taufa’ao in goal.
The goal seemed to awaken the Tongan side. Ten minutes later, captain Sophiana Moala had a clear chance to level the scores after breaking down the right flank, only to be denied by the Goalkeeper. India-may Mann followed up with a fierce strike in the 36th minute, drawing a diving save from the American Samoan keeper.
But the equaliser finally came just before the break. In first-half stoppage time, Mann capitalised on a moment of hesitation and executed a brilliant chip over an advancing goalkeeper to bring Tonga back on level terms.
Tonga had a golden opportunity to take the lead in the 65th minute when Angel Mailangi was brought down in the penalty area. Referee pointed to the spot, but Moala’s effort missed the target, sailing wide of the left post.
However, the breakthrough did come just in time. In the 86th minute, ‘Emeline Sau reacted quickest to a rebound after a powerful shot from a free-kick hitting the crossbar, tapping the ball into an empty net to seal a memorable win.
American Samoa pushed hard in the final moments, searching for an equaliser, but Tonga held firm.
With the win, Tonga sets up a thrilling final group match against Solomon Islands on Friday, a winner takes all showdown for a place in the semi-finals.
Tonga Head Coach Shinsuke Ogiso expressed his pride in the team’s response and performance following the match, highlighting the squad’s resilience and mental strength.
“Today was a really tough game as we tried to bounce back from the New Zealand game. But it was a good match. Credit to American Samoa, they were fast, and we were behind. But later in the game, we found our rhythm. The team fought with a positive mindset, and that’s what helped us score the winning goal. I’m really happy.”
Looking ahead to the final group match against Solomon Islands, Ogiso says the team will carry this positive energy forward.
“We will try to carry this positive atmosphere with us. No one will look down or lose confidence. Today’s game was a valuable experience for the players. Even when we were behind, they didn’t give up. That spirit will help us in the next match. We hope to reach the semi-finals.”
Tonga’s journey continues as they prepare for their decisive group-stage showdown against Solomon Islands carrying momentum, belief, and a united team spirit into what promises to be a thrilling encounter.
American Samoa 1 (Diamond JOUNG 20’)
Tonga 2 (India-may MANN 45+2’ ‘Emeline SAU 85’)
HT 1-1
End.
