Papua New Guinea have sealed their progression to Round 3 of the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027™ Oceania Qualifiers from Group B, with a 4-0 win over New Caledonia at Govind Park in Ba.
Both victors against Vanuatu in their previous fixtures, this one shaped as a crucial juncture in the battle for a place in the next phase of qualification, but it was the PNG Bilums who held their nerve.
Papua New Guinea had won 7-1 when the two last met in OFC competition in 2018 but were continually frustrated by New Caledonian goalkeeper Elizabeth Aben in a goalless first half. Aben denied both Marie Kaipu and Keren Kalapai, whilst Ramona Padio struck the post as New Caledonia held on to stay level.
As the heat began to have an effect and the tension rose in the second half, it appeared as if the deadlock would not be broken.
After 71 minutes however, the New Caledonian resistance finally surrendered – Anashtasia Gunemba getting the decisive goal for Papua New Guinea from a corner delivery.
That opened the floodgates, and Kalapai, Meagen Gunemba and Calista Maneo all added late goals as Papua New Guinea booked their ticket to Round 3 with a game to spare.
New Caledonia: 0
Papua New Guinea: 4 (Anashtasia GUNEMBA 71’, Keren KALAPAI 90′, Meagen GUNEMBA 90+4′, Calista MANEO 90+6′)
HT: 0-0