Vanuatu launched its 2026 World Cup Qualifiers campaign with an impressive 4-1 victory over Samoa at VFF Freshwater Stadium in Port Vila. Under the guidance of coach Juliano Schmeling, Vanuatu aggressively approached the match and took an early lead in just seven minutes, thanks to experienced striker Alex Saniel.
Captain Brian Kaltak assisted fast-paced John Alick, who scored Vanuatu’s second goal in the 37th minute, leaving the home team with a 2-0 advantage at halftime. Samoa managed to score in the 55th minute against the run of play. Substitute striker Nathan Viliamu received a through ball from Dauntae Mariner, outmaneuvering the defense before slotting it into an empty net.
However, Vanuatu quickly regained control, with Alick netting their third goal just two minutes later. The team continued to press forward, creating numerous opportunities, and Bong Kalo capped off the match with a stunning strike from outside the box during injury time.
Both teams are set to compete again during the November FIFA international window, facing off in Group B matches against New Zealand and Tahiti in Hamilton and Auckland, respectively.