One of Vanuatu’s most iconic football clubs, Malampa Revivors FC, have been eliminated in the group stage of the 2025 VFF Champions League — marking the first time in their decorated history that they have failed to progress to the knockout rounds.
The team from Luganville, Santo, fell 6–3 to a determined Waterfall FC side in their final Group B fixture at Freshwater Stadium. The loss means Malampa finish the group with two defeats, bringing an unexpected and emotional end to their campaign.
A Surprising Fall
Malampa Revivors came into the tournament with a legacy few could rival. They made national history in 2017 as the first club outside of Port Vila to represent Vanuatu in the OFC Champions League, a moment that reshaped perceptions about footballing strength beyond the capital.
Despite initial criticism and underestimation from football observers, the Revivors proved themselves repeatedly on the pitch — going on to become three-time VFF national champions and regular contenders in domestic and regional competitions.
Their participation in multiple OFC tournaments raised the club’s profile internationally, inspiring clubs across Northern and rural Vanuatu to dream bigger.
The 2025 Campaign
This year, however, the magic did not return. Malampa Revivors were placed in a tight Group B alongside Police FC and Waterfall FC, two strong sides representing different regions. They lost their opening match 3–1 to Police and were then overpowered by Waterfall in a thrilling but costly 6–3 encounter on Monday afternoon.
Their defense struggled against Waterfall’s swift counterattacks, and despite scoring three goals of their own, Malampa were unable to contain the pressure in the second half.
What This Means
With Waterfall FC topping the group and Police FC earning three points, Malampa finishes last in Group B — a placement that disqualifies them from the knockout stage.
It is a sobering moment for a club used to playing in the final stages of Vanuatu’s top competitions. For the players, staff, and their dedicated supporters in Santo, the early exit is both disappointing and reflective of a changing football landscape in the country.
Looking Ahead
Despite the setback, the legacy of Malampa Revivors FC remains strong. Their achievements over the past decade have elevated the standard of competition for all regional clubs and proven that quality football thrives across all islands of Vanuatu.
As the club regroups, fans across the nation—and especially in the North—will be watching to see how they respond in upcoming domestic seasons.
For more updates on the 2025 VFF Champions League, including semi-final fixtures and player profiles, stay connected to www.vff.vu and VFF’s official social media platforms.
