PNG Edge Closer to FIFA Women's World Cup Dream After Narrow Win Over American Samoa

Papua New Guinea moved a step closer to the FIFA Women’s World Cup after edging American Samoa 1-0 in the Oceania Qualifiers semi-final in Hamilton.

A decisive strike from Keren Kalapai just before the break proved the difference, handing PNG a hard-fought victory and maintaining their impressive defensive record in the campaign.

 PNG Edge Closer to FIFA Women's World Cup Dream After Narrow Win Over American Samoa/Photo credit : OFC

The lone goal came in added time of the first half when Kalapai capitalised on a long throw from goalkeeper Betty Sam, racing clear before calmly slotting past American Samoa keeper Ayani Kirismasi.

American Samoa had earlier shown promise, creating the first opening through Aaliyah Summers, who narrowly missed the target after connecting with a cross from her sister Mattyn.

They continued to press, with Malia Patolo setting up Morgan Patea, but the attempt sailed over the crossbar as PNG’s defence held firm.

PNG responded strongly late in the first half, with captain Ramona Padio attempting an acrobatic effort while Olivia Upaupa also came close during a series of attacking plays.

In the second half, both sides pushed forward, with Padio striking the crossbar from distance, while American Samoa threatened through Aaliyah Tu’ua, whose delivery narrowly evaded a teammate.

Despite late pressure, American Samoa could not find an equaliser, ending their spirited run in the qualifiers.

The win sends PNG into the final, where they will meet either Fiji or New Zealand, while also securing a place in the inter-confederation play-offs.