New Zealand has clinched its sixth consecutive title at the OFC U-16 Women’s Championship, showcasing dominant performances throughout the tournament.
In the highly anticipated final of the 2024 edition, the two leading teams faced off. Both had impressed with remarkable scoring records, with New Zealand not conceding any goals. Samoa made significant strides during the competition, raising the stakes as New Zealand felt the mounting pressure from other teams eager to dethrone them.
From the start, both teams fought for dominance in midfield. New Zealand’s captain, Katie Pugh, asserted her influence early after engaging in a challenge with Breanna. Pugh, along with the talented Pia Vlok, contributed heavily to both advancing New Zealand’s play and stifling Samoa’s efforts.
New Zealand struck first, with Pugh finding the net after a well-placed header from Kara McGillivray redirected the ball into her path, marking the first time Samoa had trailed in the tournament. Just before halftime, Vlok increased the lead with a brilliant shot after receiving a setup from Pugh, thrilling the New Zealand bench.
At halftime, both coaches made critical substitutions. Chang brought in Mikayla Afoa for Kealia Nansen, while Alana Gunn substituted Pugh and Natalie Young with Kya Solomon and Piper O’Neill.
Samoa emerged resolute in the second half, with midfielder T Devoux attempting to create opportunities, including a low cross from Holly Leapai that narrowly missed connecting with Brielle Tautua in front of goal.
New Zealand put the game out of reach with their third goal just before the hour mark. Mikaela Bangalan intercepted the ball in midfield and passed to Vlok, who expertly maneuvered past a defender to finish from a tight angle.
Samoa’s captain, Lynn Aiono Sagiao, sought to rally her team with a powerful free kick, but New Zealand’s goalkeeper, Harriet Muller, was able to make a routine save.
The scoring ended with New Zealand’s Laura Bennett, who netted her sixth goal of the championship thanks to a perfectly timed assist from Grace Duncan.