So, with that, Tahiti's World Cup dreams are officially over. New Caledonia have secured their place in the final of the OFC World Cup 2026 Qualifying tournament and are at least, guaranteed a spot in the inter-continental play-offs. However, they will be aiming for the ultimate prize, seeking to win the final and secure direct qualification to the World Cup. Their opponents in the final will be either Fiji or the heavy favourites New Zealand, with that match taking place later this evening. Be sure to stay tuned for all the action from that game right here on Tribe. Until next time, this is Sanil Karan signing off.

In the dying moments, substitute Waya added a fourth for New Caledonia, cutting inside from the left and slotting the ball into the bottom left corner from the edge of the box, putting the result beyond doubt. The final blow came when Poma was shown a straight red card for a foul on Athale, reducing Tahiti to ten men and rubbing salt to their wounds. In the end, New Caledonia deservedly qualified for the final, with a dominant performance marked by clinical finishing and resilience in defense, while Tahiti’s mistakes and missed opportunities led to a frustrating evening for them.

New Caledonia secured a crucial second goal after Gope-Fenepej spotted Teamotuaitau off his line and unleashed a stunning shot from distance that sailed into the top left corner. That goal effectively sealed the win for New Caledonia, with Tahiti’s hopes of a comeback fading quickly. However, Tahiti’s agony was compounded further when Kaspard’s goal was incorrectly ruled offside, despite replays showing he was onside. This decision was a bitter blow for the Tahitian side, who were left wondering what could have been.

The second half began with more intensity, and it didn’t take long for New Caledonia to break the deadlock. After a save from Teamotuaitau to deny Zeoula’s shot, Gope-Fenepej took full advantage, lobbing the keeper from just inside the box and finding the troof of the net to give New Caledonia the lead. Tahiti responded well, but New Caledonia’s defense stood solid, while Teamotuaitau made a number of key saves to keep the scoreline tight. The game opened up as both teams looked for goals, with Tahiti trying to make an impact but struggling to break through.

New Caledonia dominated possession and created numerous opportunities in the first half but were unable to find the back of the net. Despite a strong showing, Tahiti's defense held firm, and New Caledonia’s finishing let them down as they squandered several chances. The game was evenly matched in terms of ball control, but New Caledonia looked the more dangerous side with their attacking threat, while Tahiti struggled to create meaningful chances in the first 45 minutes.

POMA IS SENT OFF! Athale makes a strong run down the right, looking to break free for New Caledonia. However, Poma, in a desperate attempt to stop him, takes him out with a foul. The referee deems it a clear denial of a goal-scoring opportunity and shows Poma a straight red card, sending him off. It’s a harsh decision as there was cover, but the referee sticks with it, and Tahiti are now reduced to 10 men.

Teaonui Tehau bursts forward on the left, looking to create something for Tahiti. He swings in a cross, but it takes a deflection off a defender and ends up safely in the hands of Nyikeine. The goalkeeper collects with ease, as Tahiti’s hopes of a late breakthrough are thwarted once again.

WAYA SURELY SENDS NEW CALEDONIA TO THE FINAL! Waya makes a powerful run down the left after Gope-Fenepej finds him, cutting inside onto his stronger foot just outside the box. With calm composure, he slots the ball perfectly into the bottom left corner, off a soft deflection, beyond the reach of the keeper. That goal looks to seal the victory for New Caledonia, putting them in a commanding position and they are all but in the final now.