The national U-23 teams from New Caledonia, Fiji and Solomon Islands are playing off against Vanuatu in the event from 13-17 June at Port Vila Stadium.
VFF President Lambert Maltock is proud of the initiative which provides some competition leading into next month’s Pacific Games and Men’s Olympic Qualifiers.
“The four countries will bring their senior national team to Vanuatu to play and I am sure the fans will come here in numbers to watch some exciting football action from the four countries involved,” Maltock said.
“The countries taking part in the competition are not just here to play football but will have the chance to see what Cyclone Pam has done to the Vanuatu people, and they will also visit some primary and secondary schools in Port Vila.”
The second round of matches on Monday saw Vanuatu take on Solympics, the Solomon Islands U-23 squad. Living up to their reputation, the Solomon Islanders created plenty of chances for themselves but were left disappointed by the outstanding form of Vanuatu goalkeeper Seloni Iaruel.
An inability to finish off their chances saw both sides pick up a point from the afternoon’s efforts.
Twenty minutes into the encounter between Fiji and New Caledonia had Fiji pulling ahead courtesy of a Christopher Francis Wasasala strike. While he may have been a goalscoring hero he let his teammates down when he picked up a second yellow in the 65th minute and with it his marching orders.
The man-advantage gave New Caledonia a second wind, as captain Jean Brice Wadriako managed to pull his side in line in the 87th minute after a period of sustained pressure.
On the opening match day of the round robin competition, the hosts Vanuatu edged ahead of their counterparts with an opening 1-0 victory over New Caledonia, while Fiji came from behind to record a 1-1 draw against Solomon Islands.
Ifira Black Bird striker Nilua Nickson Nikau was the lone goalscorer in Vanuatu’s opening win. Rising star Christopher Andrew got play going with a searing run past two defenders, before he cut the ball in for a waiting Nikau to tap home.
In the second encounter Solomon Islands took the early advantage through captain Tuti Zama Tonito.
It looked like Fiji’s hopes of an equaliser weren’t going to materialise after captain Rusiate Matarerega hit the crossbar from the penalty spot, however with 15 minutes left on the clock Christopher Frances Wasasala levelled.
One last round of matches will be played on 17 June, with New Caledonia to play Solomon Islands while Fiji will take on the hosts Vanuatu.
Four Nation’s Cup standings:
1. Vanuatu 4
2. Solomon Islands 2
3. Fiji 2
4. New Caledonia 1
For more on Vanuatu football visit www.vanuafoot.vu.

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