PNG Bilums Routed Vanuatu

The PNG Bilums kicked off their campaign to a flying start after a 5-0 drubbing over Vanuatu in the FIFA Women’s World Cup Oceania Qualifiers opening round on Friday, 27 February 2026, at Fiji’s Govind Park.

PNG hit the scoreboard early, with midfielder Phylis Pala placing a soft pass to attacker Marie Kaipu, who chased the loose ball to assist central midfielder Ramona Padio to find the back of the net.

The red-hot PNG girls scored the second goal after the ball deflected off a Vanuatu’s player, and Nenny Elipas dribbled the free ball to score on the right side of the post. 

A few minutes later, Ramona Padio made a deft pass to Marie Kaipu, who dribbled a few meters to trick the goalkeeper and bagged the third goal, giving PNG a comfortable 3-0 lead at half-time.

The Bilums continued their dominance in the second half, with the opening goal scorer and captain, Ramona Padio, assisting Phylis Pala to extend the lead to 4-0.

Vanuatu had a few chances, but they couldn’t convert, with PNG counterattacking to score their 5th goal and blowing the struggling Vanuatu girls off the pitch. 

Skipper Ramona Padio was impressive in the middle, scoring the first goal and assisting two goals, and walked away with the Player-of-the-Match. 

Padio noted that the match was physical, but PNG managed to defeat Vanuatu, who now shift their focus to face Fiji in round 2.

“Today’s game was tough, but all of us worked collectively to get the result. It was through team effort that we got the win, so I’m proud of my teammates,” she said.

“We will not underestimate Fiji because they are a good side. We will build on from this match and look forward to the next one.”

The skillful midfielder credited the team’s victory to their faith and thanked the PNG fans for their support, urging everyone to back the team during the remainder of the tournament.

Photo: Oceania Football Confederation