Nukuhetulu FC finish strong with five-goal win over PanSa to close Oceania campaign

Nukuhetulu FC from Tonga have signed off their Oceania campaign in style, delivering a dominant 5-0 win over PanSa FC from American Sāmoa in Rarotonga on Tuesday.

It was their final match of the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) Women’s Champions League qualifying tournament in the Cook Islands.

While both sides were already out of contention, there was still plenty to play for and the Tongans made sure they left with a statement performance.

It was a tough and physical contest early on with both teams pushing forward and sharing possession as they searched for a breakthrough.

PanSa FC showed resilience in defence. Goalkeeper Rayxena Foma’i, wearing the captain’s armband, produced a series of strong saves to keep her side in the contest.

At the other end, Nukuhetulu’s attacking threat continued to build, led by Tongan internationals Lositika Feke and Sophiana Moala.

The pressure eventually told. A lapse at the back saw Tema Tonga open the scoring after Foma'i was caught out of position. This gave Nukuhetulu the lead midway through the first half.

Moments later, the Tongans doubled their advantage. Feke and Moala combined well in open space before Moala finished to make it 2-0.

Nukuhetulu FC celebrate after a dominant 5-0 win over PanSa FC to finish their Oceania campaign on a high. Photo/OFC Media/Jaiah Arai

The American Sāmoans continued to push for a response. Wendolynn Tua and Meleane Naa created chances but they were unable to find a breakthrough.

Nukuhetulu captain Carollyne Fotu stood firm in goal to keep a clean sheet.

The Tongans took full control after the break, turning their lead into a commanding win.

Their third goal came from the penalty spot in the 53rd minute after Grystal Fotu calmly converted to extend the margin.

Substitute Sikini Taulama added a fourth as the Tongans' attacking pressure proved too much for PanSa to contain.

Fotu capped off the performance in stoppage time scoring Nukuhetulu’s fifth to complete a convincing result.

Positive finish despite early exit

The win sees Nukuhetulu FC finish second in the qualifying tournament, closing out their campaign on a positive note after an earlier defeat to hosts Puaikura FC.

For Nukuhetulu and PanSa, the match marked the end of their 2026 Oceania run. But the Tongans leave with momentum and a performance that underlines their potential on the regional stage.

PanSa, meanwhile, showed determination throughout the tournament but were unable to find their first goal.

Nukuhetulu’s final outing may not have been enough to keep their campaign alive but it delivered a clear message: the Tongan side can compete and finish strong on the Oceania stage.

For more on the OFC Women's Champions League, click here.