Player of the Match Mike Antamanov says high concentration levels played a key part in New Zealand’s semi-final win against past champions Solomon Islands at the OFC Futsal Nations Cup.
Of the game’s final moments, the Futsal Whites goalkeeper said: “It brings all the energy and, basically, the soul from you because you’re moving from left to right, from right to left, and you have to stay focused.”
Antamanov played down his role in the dying seconds when he scored New Zealand’s final goal in the 4-2 win at the Bruce Pulman Arena, his first-ever goal for the side.
He said he was happy to contribute, whether it was saving goals or scoring them.
READ MORE: Futsal Whites to play Tahiti in final of OFC Futsal Nations Cup >>>>
Watch the match highlights
Here are the highlights from New Zealand’s win, including Mike Antamanov’s goal:
Watch Mike Antamanov’s post-match interview
Results
Games played on Thursday October 5, 2023
Semi-finals
Solomon Islands 2 (Charlie Otainao 26′, Elis Mana 40′)
New Zealand 4 (Logan Wisnewski 4′, Stephen Ashby-Peckham 18′, Casey Sharplin 28′, Mike Antamanov 40′)
Tahiti 7 (Akareva Riaria 7’, 13’, 18’, 38′, Tetuanui Tinamoe 32’, 39′, Olivier Hirihiri 40′)
Fiji 3 (Gabriele Matanisiga 9’, Dave Radrigai 20’, Filipe Baravilala 21’)
Fixture
Game to be played on Saturday October 7, 2023
Final
New Zealand v Tahiti, 7pm
Bruce Pulman Arena, Takanini, Auckland
OFC Futsal Nations Cup
Entry to the Bruce Pulman Arena is free for all games until finals day on Saturday October 7, 2023.
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