Oceania Nations Cup

Fiji held by Solomons as PNG win in Oceania Nations Cup action

Fiji took the lead in the first half when Vanisha Kumar powered past the Solomons goalkeeper Margaret Kofela.

But the Solomons, which was playing in its first Nations Cup game since 2010, gained an equaliser before half-time.

Jemina David was tumbled over in the box by Unaisi Tuberi and a penalty kick was awarded. Solomons captain Ileen Pegi sent the goalkeeper the wrong way for the leveller.

Fiji gained the upper hand in the second half, with Mereoni Tora twice heading wide and Kumar forcing a fine reaction save from Kofela, but their foes held on for the point.

Samoa, Cook Islands football teams to jostle for pole position

Both teams made a winning start to the first stage of Oceania qualifying for the 2018 Football World Cup, beating American Samoa and Tonga respectively on Monday.

Another win today in Nuku'alofa could clinch the Stage 1 qualifying title with a round to spare.

Cook Islands coach Drew Sherman accepts Samoa are the favourites but hopes his team can kick on from their first ever World Cup qualifying win.