Champions League: Madeline Arukau hat-trick powers Eels to dominant victory

Solomon Islands' soccer star Madeline Arukau scored three goals in a stunning performance, leading her Henderson Eels to a decisive victory against Tupapa Maraerenga from the Cook Islands during the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) Women’s Champions League in Tahiti on the weekend.

OFC reports that Arukau was the standout player for the Solomon Islanders. They showcased their skills with a first-half goal from their captain, Ileen Pegi, followed by two quick goals from Arukau that put them ahead.

She completed her hat-trick shortly after halftime, securing a convincing win for her team.

The report states that the Cook Islanders started the match with some good energy, creating early chances on goal, with Te Upoko Tuariki making impressive plays.

But it was hard for Tupapa to control the ball in the windy conditions. The Eels capitalised and threatened to score with Pegi featuring prominently on attack.

After several attempts, Pegi finally scored the tournament's first goal in the 26th minute. Arukau added two more goals in just four minutes, bringing the score to 3-0 by halftime.

The report adds that Tupapa came out strong in the second half, eager to fight back. With the wind helping them, the Cook Islanders tried to push forward, but the Eels quickly stopped them. Arukau scored her third goal in the 60th minute, extending their lead.

Although Tupapa had some chances to score, thanks to Tuariki and Victoria Fatiaki, the Eels held firm. They ended the match comfortably with a 5-0 victory when Agnes Gitoli scored from an excellent cross by Arukau in stoppage time.

Next, the Eels will play against the Ba Women FC from Fiji on Wednesday, while Tupapa will meet the Fijians on Saturday (Tahiti time).

Madeline Arukau, right, celebrates her goal against Tupapa Maraerenga. Photo/OFC Media

In this week's schedule, PanSa from American Sāmoa will face Hekari from Papua New Guinea later on Monday, and AS Pirae from Tahiti will take on defending champions Auckland United from New Zealand.

On Thursday, Hekari will play Auckland United and AS Pirae against PanSa. Sunday will Auckland United take on PanSa and Hekari face AS Pirae.

The top four teams will feature in the semifinals on 14 May, with the final to be played on 17 May.

Henderson Eels FC: 5 (Ileen PEGI 27′, Madeline ARUKAU 36′, 40′, 60′, Agnes GITOLI 90+9′)
Tupapa Maraerenga FC: 0

HT: 3-0.