Vanuatu began its 2026 World Cup Qualifiers campaign in impressive fashion, securing a 4-1 victory over Samoa at VFF Freshwater Stadium in Port Vila. The team, coached by Juliano Schmeling, started the match on the offensive and quickly found the net, with veteran striker Alex Saniel scoring just seven minutes into the game.
Captain Brian Kaltak provided an assist to the swift John Alick, who doubled Vanuatu’s advantage in the 37th minute, allowing the home team to lead 2-0 at halftime.
Samoa managed to score in the 55th minute against the run of play. Substitute striker Nathan Viliamu capitalized on a counterattack, racing past the defense to score into an open net after being set up by Dauntae Mariner.
However, Vanuatu quickly restored their two-goal cushion, with Alick netting their third just two minutes later. They maintained their offensive pressure, creating several chances before Bong Kalo capped the match with a stunning long-range strike in injury time.
Both teams are scheduled for their next matches during the November FIFA international window, facing off against New Zealand and Tahiti in Group B games in Hamilton and Auckland.