New Zealand triumphed in the first-ever OFC Women’s Futsal Nations Cup held in the Solomon Islands, decisively defeating Fiji 7-1 in the final match.
Fiji started strong, showing promise in the first half, but struggled to maintain their momentum after halftime, leading to New Zealand’s overwhelming performance.
The Kiwis, guided by Hannah Kraakman, took an early lead with a goal in the opening two minutes. Shortly after, Libby Boobyer scored with a well-placed shot from outside the box as Fiji’s goalkeeper, Mereoni Tinaimakubuna, had ventured too far from her line.
Fiji managed to score just before the halftime whistle, with Koleta Likuculacula netting a left-footed shot past the New Zealand goalkeeper, reducing the score to 2-1.
In the second half, despite their efforts, Fiji was unable to cope with the relentless attack from New Zealand. The Kiwis scored three more goals through Tessa Leong, Boobyer, and Jordana Bremner, extending their lead to 4-1.
Kraakman added her second goal in the final seven minutes, stealing the ball from Stella Naivalulevu and slotting it home. Dayna Manak quickly followed with another goal for New Zealand. The match concluded with an own goal from Sofi Diyalowai, who inadvertently redirected Jemma Catherwood’s cross into her own net.
With this victory, New Zealand not only claimed the championship title but also secured a spot in the FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup 2025, scheduled to take place in the Philippines.