New Zealand triumphed in the inaugural OFC Women’s Futsal Nations Cup held in the Solomon Islands, decisively defeating Fiji 7-1 in the final match.
Fiji displayed some promising play in the first half but struggled to maintain their momentum after halftime, allowing New Zealand to take control and dominate the match. The Kiwis, spearheaded by Hannah Kraakman, quickly took the lead with a goal just two minutes into the game.
Shortly after, Libby Boobyer fired a powerful shot from outside the box, capitalizing on a misstep by Fiji’s goalkeeper, Mereoni Tinaimakubuna. However, Fiji managed to score right before halftime, with Koleta Likuculacula expertly finding the back of the net with a left-footed shot, narrowing the gap to just one goal.
In the second half, despite Fiji’s continued efforts, New Zealand maintained their pressure and added to their tally with goals from Tessa Leong, Libby Boobyer, and Jordana Bremner, pushing their lead to 4-1. Kraakman scored again, stealing the ball from defender Stella Naivalulevu and slotting it past the goalkeeper, marking her fifth goal of the match.
Dayna Manak then extended New Zealand’s lead further before the scoreline was capped off by an unfortunate own goal from Sofi Diyalowai, who inadvertently deflected a cross into her own net.
This victory not only crowned New Zealand as champions of the tournament but also secured their qualification for the FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup 2025, set to take place in the Philippines.