Hosts Fiji earned a hard-fought 4-1 victory over a determined Tuvalu, to claim their second victory at the OFC Futsal Men’s Cup 2025.
Fiji had to work hard for their win, constantly tested by Tuvalu’s resilience on both ends of the court. Each attempt to break through Tuvalu’s defence was met with firm resistance, as the opposition disrupted Fiji’s rhythm at every turn.
Tuvalu captain Reme Timuani and Taufaiva Ionatana linked well on the counter, and Flamez Mokeni constantly tested the Fijian defence, threatening each time he held the ball.
Despite their resilience, Tuvalu couldn’t contain Fiji’s clinical finishing with the breakthrough coming through a free kick from Bruce Hughes that chipped over the keeper.
Fiji maintained their intensity, with Ramzan Khan and Merril Nand probing continuously, but the Tuvalu defence stood tall. Nand’s persistent paid off doubling the lead with a close-range strike, and Filipe Baravilala added a penalty to make it 3-0 before half time.
After the break, Fiji struck immediately through Khan, extending their lead but Tuvalu continued to battle hard. Their constant pressure in the counters told when Aloesi Nukualofa fired from the right wing to give Tuvalu their first goal.
Tuvalu kept pressing, continously testing the Fijian defence with Jason Alama threatening up front, as Tuvalu refused to go down. Despite their efforts Fiji was able to hold firm, securing the win and keeping their tournament alive.
HT: 3-0
Fiji: 4 (Bruce HUGHES, Merril NAND, Filipe BARAVILALA, Ramzan KHAN,)
Tuvalu: 1 (Aloesi NUKUALOFA)