Vanuatu is recognized for its strong defensive football team, built on disciplined organization and resilience in the backline. This approach has been shaped significantly by Head Coach Jean Robert Yelou, who has led the team since 2018. He has instilled a clear footballing philosophy: a solid defense is the foundation for success. Under his guidance, the team emphasizes structure, compact positioning, and coordinated pressing, making Vanuatu one of the most defensively cohesive sides in the Pacific. Yelou, who also coaches the Ifira Blackbirds—one of the top clubs in the country—is respected not only for his tactical expertise but also for his genuine care for the players, often ensuring their safety after evening training sessions.
The current squad comprises 19 players, many of whom showcased promising performances in the women’s youth league before the COVID-19 pandemic. Six players from the Penama Tigers, Vanuatu’s premier women’s club, were selected to represent the nation in this year’s OFC Women’s Nations Cup 2025. Although unexpected administrative issues prevented their participation, this selection highlights the club’s exceptional quality and the high level of talent it brings to the national team. Together with three new additions, the rest of the team brings a wealth of experience, creating a well-balanced roster that combines youthful energy with seasoned leadership.
Among the veterans are three players who contributed to Vanuatu’s historic gold medal victory at the 2017 Pacific Mini Games: Jane Alatoa, Brenda Anis, and Vanissa Wilson. Their legacy continues to inspire the next generation. Before that tournament, the entire national squad trained in China for six months, providing an ambitious and transformative experience for the team. These three players now play vital roles both on the field and as mentors. During national training camps, they share insights from their international careers, including appearances at the OFC Women’s Nations Cup, helping younger players understand the demands of top-level competition and accelerating the team’s growth.
Among them, one player who particularly stands out is Jane Alatoa. Before the 2017 tournament, she joined the training camp in China as a sprinter, initially selected for her speed. However, her journey took an unexpected turn when a Chinese football coach encouraged her to try out for the football team. Alatoa quickly demonstrated her natural ability, adapted to the sport, and earned a spot on the national team. Her decisive goal in the final of the Pacific Mini Games secured the gold medal for Vanuatu, and she was later recognized as one of the tournament’s standout performers.
Today, Alatoa remains a key player, leading the attack as both a midfielder and a striker. Her exceptional speed, technical skill, and game intelligence enable her to contribute creatively while consistently posing a goal-scoring threat.
Although many players are rivals in the domestic league, the atmosphere during national team training fosters unity. Intense daily practices help these athletes build strong relationships, which in turn translate into fluid communication, effective ball movement, and a collective defensive mindset on the field.
With a shared commitment to discipline, teamwork, and national pride, the Vanuatu Women’s National Team continues to make steady progress. Under Coach Yelou’s leadership and with the guidance of experienced veterans like Alatoa, Anis, and Wilson, the team grows stronger each day, ready to compete and inspire.
