LAUTOKA, Fiji (AP) — In a tactical showdown at Churchill Park, Tahiti’s steely defence frustrated the reigning champions Papua New Guinea, securing a 1–1 draw and keeping the sprint for Group A qualification wide open ahead of the final matchday of the 2025 OFC Women’s Nations Cup.
Papua New Guinea took an early lead in the second half when defender Raynata Samuel leapt above the Tahitian defence to head in Padio’s precise corner in the 51st minute. But Tahiti struck first just before the break, with midfielder Kiani Wong converting from the penalty spot after Nenny Elipas drew a foul—leveling the game at 1–1 going into halftime
Tahiti’s solidity was orchestrated by captain Gwendoline Fournier, whose backline smothered PNG’s attacking flow. Their midfield dynamo, Haranui Le Gayic, continually probed and disrupted, showcasing the tactical discipline that neutralised PNG’s star-studded lineup
PNG almost regained the lead early in the second half, only for Camille André to pull off a crucial save, but couldn’t prevent Samuel’s equalizer shortly after PNG pressed on, pushing play into Tahiti’s half, yet were denied further opportunities by the visitors’ compact formation and defensive resilience.
The draw leaves Group A wide open. Papua New Guinea, Tahiti, Samoa, and Cook Islands remain in contention for knockout stage spots, with the final day promising fireworks
