FIFA Vice President and President of the Vanuatu Football Federation, Lambert Maltock, is set to travel to Christchurch on Tuesday to solidify a groundbreaking partnership with Christchurch United Football Club. This collaboration marks a significant advancement for football development in the Pacific, specifically aimed at creating international opportunities for emerging talent from Vanuatu.
In line with Maltock’s visit, two rising stars from Vanuatu, Jordy Tasip and Walter Leoru, will begin trials with Christchurch United, part of New Zealand’s National League. Tasip, a 24-year-old forward who has garnered ten international caps, notably scored against New Zealand in the recent World Cup qualifiers. He recently returned to Ifira Black Bird after playing with Auckland City for a season. Meanwhile, 23-year-old Leoru has made headlines with his achievements at Police FC, where he helped the team claim three regional titles and earned the Golden Boot at the 2024 VFF Champions League.
Passport processing delays had hindered Leoru’s opportunity to debut for the national team during World Cup qualifiers. Alongside Tasip and Leoru, the partnership will also facilitate the inclusion of two more promising players, Jean Patriano Natou and Thomas Maliwan, who will join Christchurch United’s Residential Football Academy. Both players are recognized as top prospects, with Natou already making his international debut and Maliwan serving as captain of the U19 national team.
Ryan Edwards, the General Manager of Christchurch United, visited Vanuatu last week to finalize the agreement and scout talent. The partnership further emphasizes a commitment from the Vanuatu Football Federation to annually send its U14 national team to participate in the Christchurch International Cup, fostering the growth and exposure of young players.
This developing relationship between Vanuatu and Christchurch United embodies hope for the future of football in the Pacific region, promising to elevate local talents and expand their horizons in international football.
The evolution of this partnership signals an exciting time for both clubs and players alike, as they work together to enhance the football landscape in the Pacific.
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