Hosts Fiji were held to a surprise 1-1 draw by Solomon Islands in their Oceania football Women's Nations Cup tie opener in Suva, while PNG got off the mark with a win over Vanuatu.
Fiji took the lead in the first half when Vanisha Kumar powered past the Solomons goalkeeper Margaret Kofela.
Fiji captain Sofi Diyalowai was player of the match against Solomon Islands. Photo: Kirk Corrie Photo: OFC
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.
The draw leaves Group C finely poised with Fiji and New Caledonia up next on Sunday before Solomon Islands take on New Caledonia on Wednesday.
PNG overcome brave Vanuatu
Pre-tournament favourites Papua New Guinea won their opening game of the tournament but were forced to work hard to beat a spirited Vanuatu side 3-1 in Suva.
With Papua New Guinea the highest-ranked nation in the tournament and Vanuatu the lowest this was expected to be a one-sided affair but that did not prove to be the case.
PNG opened the scoring in the first half through Marie Kaipu, but Vanuatu grabbed a shock equaliser with 20 minutes to go through Vanessa Keletia.
Just five minutes later Ramona Padio gave PNG the lead and that was extended soon after by Charlie Yanding.
PNG now face on Tahiti on Sunday while Vanuatu take on Tahiti on Wednesday.
Papua New Guinea captain Meagen Gunemba shoots on goal against Vanuatu at the OFC Women's Nations Cup 2022. Photo: OFC/Kirk Corrie
