Vanuatu launched its 2026 World Cup Qualifiers campaign at VFF Freshwater Stadium in Port Vila with an impressive 4-1 victory over Samoa.
Under the leadership of coach Juliano Schmeling, Vanuatu took an aggressive approach from the outset, scoring just seven minutes into the match thanks to experienced striker Alex Saniel.
Captain Brian Kaltak assisted quick-footed John Alick, who extended Vanuatu’s lead to 2-0 in the 37th minute, allowing the hosts to head into halftime with a comfortable advantage.
Samoa managed to score in the 55th minute against the run of play when substitute striker Nathan Viliamu, aided by Dauntae Mariner, outran the defense and calmly placed the ball into an empty net past the advancing goalkeeper.
However, Vanuatu quickly responded, with Alick netting their third goal just two minutes later.
Continuing to press forward, Vanuatu created several more opportunities before Bong Kalo delivered a stunning strike from outside the box to finalize the score in injury time.
Both teams will return to action during the November FIFA international window, where they are set to face New Zealand and Tahiti in Group B matches in Hamilton and Auckland.