Solomon Kings FC began their OFC Pro League campaign on a winning note thanks to a decisive second-half strike from Japanese import Sota Higashide, who proved to be the hero in a hard-fought 1–0 victory over PNG Hekari FC, on Sunday 18th January 2026.
In a match that marked the competition debut for both sides, anticipation was high as the two clubs finally took to the field. Coaches from both camps were eager to make an early statement in Round 1, naming attacking line-ups packed with intent.
The opening half was played at a high tempo, with plenty of commitment from both teams. Solomon Kings looked particularly threatening through national star Rafa Lea’i and English forward Jez Lofthouse, but despite their energy and creativity, the breakthrough remained elusive.
At the other end, PNG Hekari showed flashes of danger, and there was a moment of panic for the Solomon Kings when goalkeeper Dave Tomare was shown a red card for allegedly handling the ball outside the box. However, relief quickly followed after a VAR review confirmed no contact had been made, allowing the skipper to stay on the field.
Hekari nearly snatched the lead just before halftime when John Orobulu found himself unmarked inside the penalty area. With plenty of time to pick his spot, the forward rushed his shot and sent it sailing over the bar.
The match took a major turn early in the second half when Hekari were reduced to ten men. Ati Kepo was initially shown a yellow card for an off-the-ball incident involving Bobbie Leslie, but after a VAR check, referee Veer Singh upgraded the decision to a straight red for violent conduct.
Sensing an opportunity, Solomon Kings coach Ben Cahn turned to his bench – a move that would ultimately decide the contest.
Enter Sota Higashide.
Moments after coming on, the Japanese recruit made an immediate impact. Meeting a low cross from William Komasi, Higashide applied a clinical finish with his very first touch of the game to give Solomon Kings a crucial 58th-minute lead.
The Kings almost doubled their advantage soon after, with Junior David exploiting the extra space to fire a shot narrowly wide of Tomare’s right post.
Despite playing with a man down, Hekari refused to surrender and continued to push forward on the counterattack. Veteran striker Raymond Gunemba came closest to equalizing, but his effort from a tight angle flew over the bar.
In the end, Higashide’s moment of brilliance proved enough, as Solomon Kings held firm to secure an important opening-match victory.
