Vanuatu book place in OFC U16 finals as hosts Tonga sign off with first win of the tournament

Vanuatu are heading to the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) Under-16 Men’s Championship 2026 in Papua New Guinea in July.

But they had to earn it the hard way at the qualifying tournament in Tonga on Tuesday.

With news of a powerful earthquake hitting Vanuatu late on Monday, the young side fought back to beat the Cook Islands 3-1 in Nuku’alofa and lock in their place at the finals in Port Moresby later this year.

It’s a big moment for Vanuatu football, confirming their place among the region’s top youth teams and giving their players a chance to test themselves against the best in Oceania.

After scoring 26 goals in their first two matches, Vanuatu came in as favourites. But the Cook Islands had other plans.

They struck first in the 37th minute, with Taianu Williams finishing from close range to give his side a surprise lead.

Cook Islands players hold firm under pressure, taking the lead before Vanuatu fought back in a hard-fought contest. Photo/OFC Media

Vanuatu responded just before half-time. Captain Russel Ala Leo won the ball in midfield and slipped a smart pass through to Franso Shem, who finished calmly to level the match.

From there, Vanuatu took control. They kept the pressure on after the break, forcing strong saves from Cook Islands goalkeeper Tearii Scheel.

With a draw enough to qualify, Vanuatu stayed patient but still found the edge when it mattered. In the 80th minute, Shem turned provider, setting up substitute Titus Robert to make it 2-1.

Shem then sealed it in stoppage time with his second goal, finishing another well-timed run in behind the defence.

The win sends Vanuatu into Group B at the July finals, where they will face New Zealand, Solomon Islands, and Tahiti. It's a big step up and a major chance to grow.

Qualification is more than just a result. It shows the strength of Vanuatu’s youth system and their growing presence in Pacific football.

With attacking depth and confidence in front of goal, they head to Papua New Guinea as a side capable of competing and not just making up the numbers.

Hosts Tonga finish on a high, securing their first win of the tournament with a commanding performance in front of home fans. Photo/OFC Media

Tonga finish strong at home

While Vanuatu celebrated, there was also a proud moment for hosts Tonga.

After two tough losses, they closed their campaign with a 5-1 win over American Sāmoa. It was their first victory of the tournament.

Sione Matakaiongo and Derric Tupou led the way with two goals each, giving home fans something to cheer in Nuku’alofa.

Matakaiongo opened the scoring in the 26th minute before Tupou quickly doubled the lead. Matakaiongo added another before half-time to put Tonga firmly in control.

American Sāmoa pulled one back through Robert Maifala, their first goal of the tournament. But Tonga stayed on top. Tupou added his second early in the second half before Kilismasi Fiu sealed the result late on.

American Sāmoa push forward in search of chances, showing fight despite a tough result in their final match of the tournament. Photo/OFC Media

The win is a big lift for Tonga. It's a sign of progress and belief, especially in front of home supporters.

For Vanuatu, it’s a step onto a bigger stage.

Two Pacific teams, two different outcomes but both moving forward.