Vanuatu commenced its 2026 World Cup Qualifiers campaign with a strong 4-1 victory over Samoa at VFF Freshwater Stadium in Port Vila. Under the guidance of coach Juliano Schmeling, Vanuatu displayed an aggressive approach from the outset, with seasoned striker Alex Saniel scoring the opening goal just seven minutes into the match.
Captain Brian Kaltak facilitated a second goal in the 37th minute, assisting the quick John Alick, enabling Vanuatu to lead 2-0 at halftime.
Samoa managed to reduce the deficit in the 55th minute through a counterattack led by substitute striker Nathan Viliamu, who, after a pass from Dauntae Mariner, outran the defense and found the net past the approaching goalkeeper.
However, Vanuatu quickly responded, and Alick netted his second goal just two minutes later. The home side continued to press for more, and Bong Kalo capped off the scoring with a remarkable strike from outside the box during injury time.
Next, both teams will face off in the November FIFA international window, playing Group B matches in Hamilton and Auckland against New Zealand and Tahiti.