2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Qualifier - OFC Stage 3

The Kapuls were penalized in the first minute of play after a foul from captain Michael Foster on Micah Lea’alafa.

This gave the visitors the momentum in the opening minutes as they launched several raids.

But the Kapuls were able to withstand this and eventually found their way into their opponents’ half.

Left one on one with the keeper, Kapuls striker Nigel Dabinyaba nearly put the home side in front but Phillip Mango denied him twice at close range.

Is this possible? Coach of the Kapuls, Flemming Serritslev, says yes.

“The starting points for the two teams couldn’t be much more different than the case is.

“The Solomon Islands know that one point will bring them to the regional final, whereas we would have to beat Solomon Islands 5-0 or five goals to go on to the next stage.

“I think everyone would say we’re on a mission impossible. But in football, anything can happen.

“Of course we believe we can do it,” said Serritslev.

Both teams started strongly, but it was PNG who had more chances in the opening exchanges in front of a home crowd of 4, 209 spectators.

A foul on Patrick Aisa in the 9th minute presented PNG an opportunity to score and hit the lead.

Lining the ball up to take the kick just outside the penalty box, Netherlands-based striker, David Browne’s attempt just soared centimetres over the cross bar.