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 took an aggressive approach from the outset, scoring their first goal just seven minutes into the match thanks to veteran striker Alex Saniel.
Captain Brian Kaltak assisted speedy forward John Alick in the 37th minute, extending Vanuatu’s lead to 2-0 as they headed into halftime. Samoa managed to score in the 55th minute when substitute striker Nathan Viliamu, set up by Dauntae Mariner, outpaced the defense and slotted the ball into an open net.
However, Vanuatu quickly regained momentum, with Alick netting their third goal only two minutes later. The hosts continued to press forward, creating several opportunities before Bong Kalo capped off the scoring with a stunning long-range goal in injury time.
Both teams will next compete during the November FIFA international window, facing off against New Zealand and Tahiti in Group B matches held in Hamilton and Auckland.