In a thrilling semi-final showdown at the OFC Nations Cup, Vanuatu etched their name into football history by securing their inaugural final appearance with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Fiji. The match, filled with intensity and tactical maneuvers, saw Vanuatu’s determination and strategic play come to the forefront against a resilient Fijian side.
#Vanuatu's starting lineup includes IAMAR in goal, with KALTAK leading the defense alongside CLARK, THOMAS, and KALO. JEFFREY, SPOKEYJACK, WOHALE, TENENE, ALICK, and IAWAK complete their midfield and forward positions. pic.twitter.com/TP2xkfzsEk
— Vanuatu Football Federation (@VFF_Football) June 27, 2024
It's half time in the match between #Fiji and Vanuatu. #Vanuatu leads 1-0 thanks to an early goal by Johnathan Spokeyjack. pic.twitter.com/Sa9sskxSkI
— Vanuatu Football Federation (@VFF_Football) June 27, 2024
Vanuatu took an early lead in the 11th minute through Johnathan Spokeyjack’s precise finish, capitalizing on an early offensive surge. Fiji responded fiercely in the second half, with Sitiveni Cavuilagi leveling the score in the 45th minute, setting the stage for a tense battle.
Just after the break, in the 45th minute of the second half, Sitiveni Cavuilagi scores a crucial goal for Fiji, leveling the match! It's now 1-1 as both teams fight fiercely for control. #GoalAlert #SitiveniCavuilagi #FijiVsVanuatu #SportsUpdate. pic.twitter.com/5jyXa4aefm
— Vanuatu Football Federation (@VFF_Football) June 27, 2024
The decisive moment arrived in the 56th minute when Jason Thomas, guided by a well-placed corner kick from Tenene, headed the ball into the net, putting Vanuatu back in the lead. Despite Fiji’s relentless efforts and Vanuatu’s missed penalty by Bong Kalo, Vanuatu’s defense held firm, anchored by goalkeeper James IAMAR’s crucial saves.
In the 56th minute, Jason Thomas heads in a goal from a corner kick by Tenene, putting Vanuatu back in the lead! The score is now 2-1 in favor of Vanuatu. #GoalAlert #JasonThomas #Vanuatu #FijiVsVanuatu #SportsUpdate pic.twitter.com/wSxQjcY0Fh
— Vanuatu Football Federation (@VFF_Football) June 27, 2024
Johnathan Spokeyjack’s stellar performance earned him the Man of the Match accolade, highlighting his pivotal role in Vanuatu’s triumph. Head Coach Juliano SCHMELING praised the team’s resilience and unity, underscoring their historic achievement in reaching their maiden OFC Nations Cup final.
With this victory, Vanuatu now sets their sights on facing New Zealand in the final, poised to challenge for the coveted title.
