New Zealand triumphed in the first-ever OFC Women’s Futsal Nations Cup held in the Solomon Islands, defeating Fiji with a score of 7-1 in the final.
Fiji started the match strongly, demonstrating potential in the first half, but struggled to maintain their momentum after halftime, allowing New Zealand to take control of the game. The Kiwis, led by Hannah Kraakman, opened the scoring just two minutes into the match.
Shortly afterward, Libby Boobyer scored a powerful shot from outside the box, capitalizing on a moment when Fiji’s goalkeeper, Mereoni Tinaimakubuna, had moved off her line. However, as the first half was coming to a close, Fiji managed to find the back of the net, with Koleta Likuculacula executing a well-placed left-footed shot that brought the score to 2-1.
In the second half, Fiji continued to attack but faced a relentless New Zealand team. The Kiwis extended their lead with goals from Tessa Leong, Libby Boobyer, and Jordana Bremner, making it 4-1. Kraakman added her second goal late in the game after intercepting the ball in her defense and finishing with ease against Tinaimakubuna.
Days later, Dayna Manak scored New Zealand’s sixth goal, and the final tally came from an own goal by Sofi Diyalowai, who inadvertently redirected Jemma Catherwood’s cross into her net.
This victory not only awarded New Zealand the championship title but also secured their spot in the FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup 2025, which will take place in the Philippines.