AS PTT have claimed third place at the OFC Futsal Men’s Champions League 2025, with a dominant 6-1 win over Southern Legions FC at the Vodafone Arena in Suva.
It means the 2024 champions still find a place on the podium despite missing out on the final for the first time in tournament history in 2025.
The two teams played out a closely fought 2-2 draw when they met during the round-robin phase, but the defending champions turned that result on it’s head this time around.
Southern Legions began the match with agression, firing shots towards the AS PTT goal, and constantly threatening the opposition defence. A goal in the opening stages looked sure when Benjamin Viti led a counter-attacking move in a 3 v 1 opportunity, but his shot was saved by the goalkeeper.
The defending champions showed their class, staying patient through their defensive efforts though. Goalkeeper Yoann Nanyakarawa stood tall in goal with several impressive saves – whislt the AS PTT backline also did well to block several shots.
A well worked move up court from AS PTT gave captain James Namuli the first goal. And more goals followed with AS PTT striking four times, to give the New Caledonians some momentum going into the break.
Southern Legions earned a consolation before the half through Jayson Timatua, who had been an attacking threat on the right edge. His goal came through a deflected shot, finishing to put his side on the board.
The defending champions came out in the second half with energy, scoring their sixth immediately after the break. Southern Legions FC worked hard to close the gap with several good looks, but were unable to find the net amidst the reslient defence from their opponents.
Robert Forrest rounded out AS PTT’s tally with a seventh goal, before Benjamin Naviti addded a late consolation in a losing effort for Southern Legions.
AS PTT secure the bronze medal for the first time, adding to their silver from the inaugural edition and their title last year. Meanwhile, Southern Legions FC close out the tournament in fourth place on their OFC Futsal Men’s Champions League debut.
AS PTT: 7 ( James NAMULI 8′, 16′, Jymaël UPA 11′, 17′, Darrell GNHAO 18′, Emmanuel HMAEN 20′, Robert Forrest 34′)
Southern Legions FC: 2 (Jayson TIMATUA 17′, Benjamin NAVITI 38′)
HT: 5 – 1
Photo credit: OFC Media via Phototek.