MANU SAMOA SEVENS SECURES SPOT FOR PARIS 2024 OLYMPIC
Manu Samoa qualifies for the Paris 2024, Olympics (Photo: Manu Samoa Sevens)
In a historic moment at Brisbane's Ballymore Stadium during the Oceania have secured a spot at the Paris 2024 Olympics. The journey to Olympic qualification was marked by exceptional teamwork, individual brilliance, and a resounding 24-0 victory over Papua New Guinea in the final.
The Samoan team, for the first time ever, will grace the world's biggest sporting event, and their journey showcased their prowess in the sevens format. In a one-sided final, Samoa faced Papua New Guinea, who put up a spirited effort in the early stages, controlling possession for most of the first minute. However, Samoa's dominance soon unfolded.
BJ Lima set the tone with an early try in the first half, and further tries from Taunuu Niuleavaea and Pelasio Samuelu Niuula all but sealed the match for Manu Samoa before the halftime whistle. The significance of the occasion was noticeable when Niuula slammed the ball down just before the break, hinting at the historic achievement that awaited them.
The second half saw a more contested battle, with both teams struggling to capitalise on scoring points. However, individual brilliance emerged as the differentiator, with Faafoi Falaniko's strategic kick and chase creating a special moment that secured Samoa's historic Olympic qualification. As the full-time siren sounded, Samoa's supporters, players, and coaches soaked up the magnitude of the achievement.
Stan Sport commentator Jordan Hughes captured the essence of the moment, acknowledging Samoa's first-ever qualification for the Olympics. Emotions ran high, and BJ Lima, the try-scorer, expressed gratitude, thanking the man above for the achievement and recognizing the unwavering support from families. Lima also noted that, despite this milestone, the hard work for Samoa had only just begun.
The triumph at the Oceania Sevens not only marked a historic qualification for Samoa but also represented a significant milestone for Pacific island rugby. As the Samoan team prepares to embark on their Olympic journey to Paris in 2024, the nation celebrates this monumental achievement, and fans eagerly anticipate witnessing their team make waves on the global stage.
