Vanuatu edge Fiji

Vanuatu put up a clinical second-half performance to beat Fiji 2-0 in the men’s fixture of the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) Prime Minister’s Cup yesterday (17th November 2025) at PNG Football Stadium, Port Moresby.

Both sides rose to the challenge in the first half and delivered an entertaining and physical contest. Though neither side had a few chances of scoring goals, they failed to capitalize, leaving the half-time score at nil all.

The intensity continued in the second spell. With a bit of field position in Fiji’s territory, Vanuatu’s striker Bill Kaltfer Kaltack struck the ball outside of the 15-meter yard to break the deadlock in the 50th minute and put his team in front. 

Ten minutes later, the Vanuatu side got a penalty for a professional foul inside Fiji’s penalty box area, and Kerry Iawak slotted the free-kick to extend their lead to 2-0. 

Trailing behind 2-0, the Fijians upped their tempo to give themselves a fighting chance, but the men in gold contained Fiji’s attack to close out the game with a gutsy victory.

Vanuatu coach Lars Hopp said that though it was a very tough game, his men stood up to the challenge to register a courageous win.

“I think the boys did really well today (yesterday). They worked really hard to win this game, so I give credit to them,” he said.

“Coming into this match, we talked about concentrating and executing our game plan, which the boys did really well, especially in the second half.

“Even until the end, when we were 2 goals up, it was important for us to keep the opposition at zero, so it was a hard-fought win.” 

The Ni-Vanuatu are topping the men’s Pool B and securing their spot in the playoffs, which kicks off tomorrow (19th November).