New Zealand have won the OFC Futsal Cup 2022 after a brilliant performance in Sunday’s Cup final, which saw them beat Solomon Islands 6-2 at the Vodafone Arena in Suva, Fiji.
Rahan Ali did much of the damage for New Zealand, netting three goals in the decider, including two in the space of two minutes.
The Futsal Whites got off to a flying start, with Jordan Ditfort flicking the ball up and powering a half volley home, while Charlie Ata was called into action on a number of occasions, with some impressive saves ensuring the Futsal Whites didn’t add to their tally.
Marlon Sia and Ali then traded goals, before Ethan Martin gave New Zealand a 3-1 lead at the break.
Ali’s quickfire double, in between Benjmin Mana’s goal, put New Zealand well in control midway through the second period, before veteran Stephen Ashby-Peckham slotted a sixth to put the result beyond doubt.
The Kurukuru’s cause wasn’t helped late on by the loss of Jeffery Bule and Sia to red cards.
New Zealand: 6 (Jordan DITFORT, Rahan ALI x3, Ethan MARTIN, Stephen ASHBY-PECKHAM)
Solomon Islands: 2 (Marlon SIA, Benjamin Mana)
HT: 3-1
