Papua New Guinea, hosting the OFC Men’s Nations Cup for the first time, have done themselves one better by making a historic trip to the tournament final. They defeated the Solomon Is 2-1 in the semifinals and will face New Zealand, 1-0 winners over New Caledonia.

There were chaotic scenes earlier in the day in Port Moresby, when police opened fire on protesting university students. The day’s matches went ahead in spite of the violence.

In the first semifinal, a dangerous New Caledonia squad had the lion’s share of possession but could not make it count. Early in the second half, a free kick by Chris WOOD beat Cagous goalkeeper Jelen IXOEE for the only goal of the match.

PNG took on the Bonitos of the Solomon Is in the second semifinal. Michael FOSTER’s goal for the host nation was answered by Judd MOLEA shortly before halftime, leading to a tense second half. Nigel DABINGYABA finally broke the deadlock in the 83rd minute when a rebound from a corner fell to his feet; his calm finish secured the 2-1 win.

The Kapuls will play an OFC Men’s Nations Cup final for the first time on SAT 11 JUN 2016 when they face New Zealand, four time OFC champions. The winner qualifies for the 2017 Confederations Cup in Russia; both teams have already advanced to the final round of OFC qualifiers for the 2018 Men’s World Cup.