Les Cagous stun Tahiti

New Caledonia have put themselves back in the frame in the third stage of Oceania qualifying for the FIFA World Cup with a stunning 4-0 away win over OFC Nations Cup Champions Tahiti in Papeete tonight.

September 12, 2012

AUCKLAND – New Caledonia have put themselves back in the frame in the third stage of Oceania qualifying for the FIFA World Cup with a stunning 4-0 away win over OFC Nations  Cup Champions Tahiti in Papeete tonight.

The last of 40 qualifiers played on September 11 in five confederations around the globe – New Zealand’s was the first – capped a dramatic 24 hours of results and moved Les Cagous into second place behind the All Whites.

The visitors bounced back from an 2-0 opening match day loss to New Zealand and gained revenge for a 1-0 loss to Tahiti in the continental final in Honiara in June with a second half onslaught at Stade Pater.

After a goalless first spell, New Caledonia scored three in a devastating eight minute salvo. Casar Lolohea netted in the 55th minute, before Oceania Player of the Year Betrand Kai added two in quick succession. France based Georges Gope Fenepej added the fourth a minute from time.

The October window for match days three and four now looks potentially even more decisive with New Caledonia meeting Solomon Islands – level on three points – home and away. New Zealand will look to continue their fine form and kill off Tahiti’s challenge with home and away wins on October 12 (Papeete) and October 16 (Christchurch).

2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil – Oceania Stage 3 Qualifying Standings