New Zealand has clinched their sixth consecutive title in the OFC U-16 Women’s Championship, showcasing their dominance in the tournament.
The final match of the 2024 edition featured two of the tournament’s top teams, who had both excelled with impressive goal tallies while maintaining solid defenses. Samoa made significant strides during the event, while New Zealand faced heightened pressure as the competition in Oceania continued to close in on them, with many eager to see if they could be dislodged from their position.
Both squads aimed to assert themselves early, battling for control in midfield. New Zealand’s captain Katie Pugh quickly made her impact felt in a confrontation with Breanna, while the versatile Pia Vlok contributed to advancing New Zealand’s play and thwarting Samoa’s efforts.
New Zealand struck first, with Pugh once again finding the net as she connected with a long free kick headed towards her by Kara McGillivray. Pugh skillfully finished to put New Zealand ahead for the first time in the competition.
As the first half neared its end, Vlok added to the tally with an impressive shot. After receiving a pass from Pugh just outside the area, Vlok took a moment to aim before dispatching the ball past Samoa’s goalkeeper Margaret Fagasuisui Tuii, igniting celebrations on the New Zealand bench.
Both teams made changes at halftime. New Zealand’s coach Alana Gunn replaced Pugh and Natalie Young with Kya Solomon and Piper O’Neill, while Samoa’s Chang brought in Mikayla Afoa for Kealia Nansen. Samoa emerged with renewed determination, as midfielder T Devoux set up Holly Leapai for a low cross that nearly found its target, but Brielle Tautua was unable to connect.
New Zealand effectively sealed their victory with a third goal shortly before the hour mark. Mikaela Bangalan won possession in midfield and passed to Vlok, who skillfully maneuvered the ball to slot it home from a difficult angle.
Samoa’s captain, Lynn Aiono Sagiao, tried to rally her team, taking a long-range free kick that New Zealand goalkeeper Harriet Muller expertly saved in a crowded area.
Laura Bennett capped off New Zealand’s scoring with her sixth goal of the championship, finishing a well-placed pass from Grace Duncan.