The PNG men's soccer team will play off for bronze after suffering a disappointing 2-1 loss to Tahiti today in the first semi-finals at the Bisini Grounds.
The match was locked at nil-all at half time in a tight half of play.
But mistakes in the second half cost the game for PNG as Tahiti scored twice through striker Fred Tisot and later Tayatayu Lucas.
PNG'S Tommy Semmy provided some hope, scoring late in the game from a penalty but it wasn't meant to be as Tahiti defended their lead to the end.
PNG'S coach Ricki Herbert said it was a disappointing loss and that silly mistakes had cost PNG the game.
"It's disappointing but we will progress and continue to build from here. We're going to put our best foot forward and are looking forward to the bronze medal play-off this Friday," said Herbert.
PNG will play the loser of the second semi-final between Fiji and New Caledonia. This game will get underway at 2:30pm today.
Finals for soccer will be played at the Sir Hubert Murray Stadium.