Solomon Islands is another step closer to the World Cup following their 2-1 against Papua New Guinea (PNG) in Port Moresby last night.
Tuesday’s win confirmed their spot for stage four of the World Cup Qualifiers.
This means Tahiti who have been waiting for a defeat to Solomon Islands and PNG are out of contention leaving Solomon Islands and New Zealand to battle the next stage.
Stage four of the qualifiers will see Solomon Islands take on group A winners, New Zealand in a home and away match format to determine which country will advance to the final stage of the World Cup Qualifiers.
The country’s trust and confidence now lies upon Spaniard Coach, Felipe Vega Arango who has led the Solomon Islands team through the third stage.
Coach, Felipe Vega Arango is aware of what lies ahead and admitted New Zealand will be tough but says they have the time to prepare for the fourth stage.
“I would think about that for the moment but right now I would like to be with team and enjoy the win.
“Yes New Zealand is an extremely tough opponent.
“They haven’t lost a match in the World Cup Qualifiers for a while.
“I am happy because we have some time to prepare for the game.
“We have the Solomon Cup coming up with players from the province so I am going to be looking for new players and also in the S-League.
“I believe Solomon football is getting better as we go on,” he said.
The final stage of the World Cup Qualifiers will see the winners of the fourth stage take on the fifth team in the South America’s Nations Cup.
Stage four will be played in August.
Many football fans and supporters are hoping Solomon Islands will reach the final stage.
This will give Solomon Islands football fans the chances of witnessing live some of the world’s top players playing here in the country.
By CARLOS ARUAFU
Photo: OFC
