Vanuatu launched its 2026 World Cup Qualifiers campaign with an impressive 4-1 victory over Samoa at the VFF Freshwater Stadium in Port Vila. Under the guidance of coach Juliano Schmeling, Vanuatu initiated a strong offensive effort, with seasoned striker Alex Saniel scoring within just seven minutes of kickoff.
Captain Brian Kaltak assisted speedy forward John Alick, who doubled the lead in the 37th minute, sending Vanuatu into halftime with a 2-0 advantage.
Samoa managed to score in the 55th minute, when substitute striker Nathan Viliamu finished a counterattack initiated by Dauntae Mariner, evading the defense and slotting the ball into an open net. However, Vanuatu quickly responded, with Alick netting their third goal only two minutes later.
The hosts maintained their attacking momentum, and in injury time, Bong Kalo struck a remarkable goal from outside the box to finalize the score at 4-1.
Both teams will next compete during the November FIFA international window for Group B matches against New Zealand and Tahiti, taking place in Hamilton and Auckland.