New Zealand triumphed in the inaugural OFC Women’s Futsal Nations Cup held in the Solomon Islands, defeating Fiji 7-1 in the final match.
Fiji started strong, displaying promise in the first half, but faltered in the second, allowing New Zealand to seize control and dominate the game. The Kiwis, led by Hannah Kraakman, quickly established their lead with an early goal just two minutes into the match.
Shortly thereafter, Libby Boobyer extended the lead with a powerful strike from the edge of the box, capitalizing on a moment when Fiji’s goalkeeper, Mereoni Tinaimakubuna, had strayed from her line. Just before halftime, Fiji managed to score, with Koleta Likuculacula executing a well-placed left-footed shot past the New Zealand keeper, Bradley, narrowing the score to 2-1.
In the second half, Fiji attempted to mount a comeback but faced a relentless New Zealand team that continued to extend their advantage. Notable goals from Tessa Leong, Libby Boobyer, and Jordana Bremner increased the lead to 4-1. Kraakman added another goal late in the game, intercepting the ball from Stella Naivalulevu and finishing past Tinaimakubuna.
Dayna Manak soon followed with a sixth goal for New Zealand, while an unfortunate own goal from Sofi Diyalowai, who inadvertently redirected Jemma Catherwood’s cross into her own net, capped off the scoring.
New Zealand’s commanding performance secured not only the championship title but also a spot in the FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup 2025, set to take place in the Philippines.