Vanuatu and New Zealand battled it out in an intense encounter during their final match, with New Zealand capturing the win 3-1 and keeping their hopes of winning the championship alive.
The Futsal Whites needed three points to stay in the title race, with their fate also depending on the result of the following match between the Solomon Islands and Tuvalu.
New Zealand struck early to set the tone of the contest, when an attacking free kick in the opening minutes was worked neatly as Ethan Martin rolled the ball into the path of Cooper Wink, who slotted home.
That quick start gave the Futsal Whites the momentum, allowing them to settle into their rhythm and dictate the pace. Their advantage grew when Casey Sharplin pounced on a loose pass, breaking forward before firing a powerful shot past the Vanuatu goalkeeper.
At 2-0 up, New Zealand looked in full control, creating further chances and forcing their opponents onto the back foot.
But Vanuatu showed their resilience, with Justine Alick inspiring the fightback winning a penalty late in the first half. He converted confidently, shifting the pressure back onto New Zealand before the break.
The second half saw Vanuatu continue that pressure, testing New Zealand’s defence with repeated shots, led well by captain Michel Coulon and goalscorer Justine Alick.
But New Zealand responded with their sharp counterattacks, creating chances and finally breaking through as Dylan Manickum and En Watanabe combined to extend their lead.
Vanuatu continued to pressure New Zealand, but Marven Eakins men stayed resilient to secure their lead.
Photo credit: OFC Media via Phototek
HT: 2-1
Vanuatu: 1 (Justine ALICK)
New Zealand: 3 (Copper WINK, Casey SHARPLIN, En WATANABE)