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 had a promising start in the first half but struggled to maintain their momentum after halftime, allowing New Zealand to take 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.
Libby Boobyer soon followed with a powerful shot from the edge of the box, capitalizing on a misstep by goalkeeper Mereoni Tinaimakubuna. Nevertheless, Fiji managed to respond just before the end of the first half, with Koleta Likuculacula scoring a well-placed left-footed shot past New Zealand’s goalkeeper to make it 2-1.
In the second half, Fiji’s efforts were met with a relentless New Zealand team. Tessa Leong, Libby Boobyer, and Jordana Bremner each contributed to extending New Zealand’s lead to 4-1. Kraakman struck again, netting her second goal in the closing minutes after intercepting the ball from Stella Naivalulevu and finishing past Tinaimakubuna.
Shortly after, Dayna Manak added another goal for New Zealand. The scoring culminated with an own goal from Sofi Diyalowai, who inadvertently directed Jemma Catherwood’s cross into her own net.
This victory not only awarded New Zealand the championship title but also secured them a spot in the FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup 2025, which will be held in the Philippines.