Hekari women’s side reach semifinal at Champions League

HEKARI United have booked their semifinals berth in the Oceania Football Confederation Women’s Champions League after a 5-0 victory over Avatiu FC of Cook Islands on Saturday.
The Eric Komeng-coached side, needing a win to solidify their pole spot in the group, scored early through skipper Marie Kaipu’s left-footed strike in the seventh minute, paving way for them to qualify for Wednesday’s semifinal clash against Fiji’s Labasa FC, who edged defending champions AS Academy Feminine out of the tournament.
Meanwhile, Auckland United and Tafea FC have qualified for the other semifinal after winning their respective pool matches.
Hekari’s 1-0 lead lasted throughout the first half but towards the break, Anashtasia Gunemba extended their lead with her 43rd minute goal through a cross from Kaipu.
Two minutes later, Christie Maneu slotted Hekari’s third goal as they led 3-0 into the break.
The 3-0 lead into the second stanza still wasn’t enough for Hekari as Komemg’s side aimed to get their goal difference up in order to top the group.
Hekari continued their attacking prowess in the remaining 45 minutes as Kaipu scored her second goal quickly in the second half.
With his side up by four goals, Komeng began to inject his reserves into the game, first withdrawing goal scorer Gunemba and then replacing goalkeeper Fidelma Watpore with Zaire Kuyae for her first appearance of the tournament.
Even with the change, Hekari maintained their momentum with Kaipu providing power upfront that eventually saw her assist in their final goal in the 80th minute.
Kaipu chased the ball down the left wing before placing it for substitute Hortance Kimit to slot home the winner past Avatiu’s substitute goalkeeper Kimberley Uini.
Hekari have today and tomorrow to prepare and take on Fijian champion club Labasa on Wednesday as they aim to reach the final after finishing as runners up in the inaugural tournament last year.