For the first time in history, the Vanuatu football team has reached the final of the OFC Men’s Nations Cup. They defeated Fiji 2-1 in the semi-final at VFF Freshwater Stadium in Port Vila.
The hosts, Vanuatu, are now set to face New Zealand in the final on Sunday, a momentous occasion for this football-loving country. The anticipation is palpable as both Fiji and Vanuatu had set their sights on making history by qualifying for their first final appearance.
Fiji’s best placements were third in 1998 and 2008, while Vanuatu’s top finish was fourth in 2000, 2002, and 2008.
Fiji coach Rob Sherman made two strategic changes: Scott Wara returned to the side, and Setareki Hughes replaced Sirusi Nalaubu. On the other hand, injuries forced Vanuatu Coach Juliano Schmeling to make some crucial replacements.
Timothy Boulet was replaced by Kerry Iawak, and Alex Saniel was replaced by John Wohale. Goalkeeper Dgen Leo was replaced by James Iamar, and Tasso Jeffrey returned at the expense of Michel Coulon.
The large Fiji community in Port Vila came out in force, while many Vanuatu businesses closed their doors to allow the locals to support the home side and create a terrific football atmosphere at VFF Freshwater Stadium. Fiji started strong, and the new Vanuatu goalkeeper, Iamar, was immediately called into action to save a dipping free-kick from Hughes.
Despite Fiji’s dominance, Vanuatu got a golden opportunity from the penalty spot after an infringement on Godine Tenene in the 10th minute, but Bong Kalo only managed to hit the outside of the post.
Johnathan Spokeyjack picked up the ball on the right wing, dribbled smartly around defender Ivan Kumar, and unleashed a powerful shot past Isikeli Sevanaia, sending the home fans into delirium.
Sherman’s words at the break must have been magic because Fiji was level within 44 seconds after coming out of the changing rooms.
Krishna laid off a teasing cross from Nabil Begg to set up Sitivenu Cavuilagi. The latter struck a screamer from the edge of the box to score his first international goal and set up a mouthwatering second half.
After weathering a brief Fijian storm, the shell-shocked Vanuatu team slowly regathered their composure and regained the lead through Jason Thomas in the 57th minute.
The goal was a carbon copy of the one that defeated the Solomon Islands in the group stage, with Tenene again delivering a pinpoint corner for the defender to glance home at the near post. On Sunday, Vanuatu will face New Zealand in the grand final at VFF Freshwater Stadium in Port Vila.
