Solomon Islands win OFC Futsal Men’s Cup while New Zealand finish second

New Zealand have lost their OFC Futsal Men’s Cup crown to the Solomon Islands, despite the Futsal Whites winning their last game at the five-nation tournament.

The Futsal Whites beat Vanuatu 3-1 to end their campaign in Suva, Fiji, but the Solomon Islands took the trophy when they completed their unbeaten record at the tournament with a 7-0 win against Tuvalu.

The Solomon Islands last won the OFC men’s futsal title six years ago.

Main photo: Champions again … the Solomon Islands. Photo credit: OFC Media / Kirk Corrie / Phototek.

Futsal Whites end tournament with win against Vanuatu

Vanuatu and New Zealand battled it out in an intense encounter during their final match, with New Zealand capturing the win 3-1.

The Futsal Whites needed three points to stay in the title race, and their victory meant the Solomon Islands would need to win against Tuvalu to take the competition.

New Zealand struck early to set the tone of the contest, when Casey Sharplin and Cooper Wink scored early goals.

Action from New Zealand’s game against Vanuatu. Photo credit: OFC Media / Kirk Corrie / Phototek.

At 2-0 up, New Zealand looked in full control, creating further chances and forcing their opponents onto the back foot.

But Vanuatu showed their resilience, with Justine Alick inspiring the fightback, winning a penalty late in the first half. He converted confidently, shifting the pressure back onto New Zealand before the break.

The second half saw Vanuatu continue that pressure, testing New Zealand’s defence with repeated shots, led well by captain Michel Coulon and goalscorer Justine Alick.

But New Zealand responded with their sharp counterattacks, creating chances and finally breaking through as Dylan Manickum and En Watanabe combined to extend their lead.

Vanuatu continued to pressure New Zealand, but coach Marven Eakins’ men stayed resilient to secure their lead.

Solomon Islands rack up big win to secure title

The Solomon Islands Kurukuru left no doubt in sealing the OFC Futsal Men’s Cup, powering past Tuvalu 7-0 in front of a packed Vodafone Arena in Suva.

Needing a win to secure the title, the Kurukuru delivered a performance full of energy and precision, confirming again their status as Oceania’s top futsal side.

Tuvalu, who required only a draw to deny them the trophy, defended bravely and showed spirit, but the champions’ quality proved too much in the end.

The Kurukuru started with intent, controlling possession and pressing high through captain Charlie Otainao and forward Calvin Do’oro. Their early dominance was rewarded when Do’oro found space to fire home the opener. Soon after, Otainao doubled the advantage with a composed finish, lifting the crowd to its feet.

The Solomon Islands (green strip) were always in control against Tuvalu. Photo credit: OFC Media / Kirk Corrie / Phototek.

Tuvalu responded through the efforts of Taufaiva Nukualofa and Flamez Mokeni, while Jason Alama came close with a powerful strike that struck the post.

Goalkeeper Katepu Iosua was also strong at the goalmouth, producing a string of saves to hold off their opponents as the Solomon Islanders kept pushing forward.

After the break, the Kurukuru’s relentless pressure broke Tuvalu’s resistance. Three quick goals in succession stunned the defence, almost sealing the outcome before the final whistle. Another goal would come from Jayson Timi, who struck again, leaving no doubt about the result.

For coach Dickson Kadau and his side, it was a night of celebration and another proud moment in their decorated futsal history.

For Tuvalu, making their tournament return after 14 years, it was a campaign that earned respect, capped by a spirited effort in the final match against the champions.

Results

Games played on Wednesday September 24, 2025

Vanuatu 1 (Justine Alick 17′)
New Zealand 3 (Casey Sharplin, 10′, Cooper Wink 17′, En Watanabe 24′)

Tuvalu 0
Solomon Islands 7 (Calvin Do’oro, Charlie Otainao, Jayroll Patty, Clifford Misitana, Jayson Timi, Ellis Mana)

Past winners

This story was first published on September 24, 2025.

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