New Zealand clinched the first-ever OFC Women’s Futsal Nations Cup in the Solomon Islands, defeating Fiji decisively with a score of 7-1 in the final match.
Fiji began the game with promising energy but struggled to maintain their momentum after halftime, allowing New Zealand to take control and showcase their dominance. The Kiwi team, propelled by Hannah Kraakman, scored early with a goal in the first two minutes.
Shortly after, Libby Boobyer delivered a powerful shot from outside the box, capitalizing on a moment when Fiji’s goalkeeper Mereoni Tinaimakubuna had ventured off her line. Despite facing pressure, Fiji managed to score just before the end of the first half with a left-footed shot from Koleta Likuculacula, reducing New Zealand’s lead to 2-1.
In the second half, despite their persistent efforts, Fiji faced an unyielding New Zealand team. Key contributions from players such as Tessa Leong, Libby Boobyer, and Jordana Bremner saw New Zealand extend their lead to 4-1. Kraakman, who had already found the net earlier, added a fifth goal in the final moments of the match after intercepting the ball from Stella Naivalulevu and scoring past Tinaimakubuna.
Following Kraakman’s goal, Dayna Manak contributed the sixth point for New Zealand. The tally was capped off with an own goal from Sofi Diyalowai, who inadvertently redirected Jemma Catherwood’s cross into her own goal.
With this decisive victory, New Zealand not only secured the championship but also guaranteed their spot in the FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup 2025, set to take place in the Philippines.