The Futsal Whites reignited their campaign with a commanding 6-1 win over a determined Tuvalu side at the OFC Futsal Men’s Cup in Suva, Fiji.
After an opening defeat, head coach Marvin Eakins demanded a response, and his team delivered against a spirited Tuvalu outfit making their long-awaited OFC return.
Captain Dylan Manickum led the charge, linking effectively with Cooper Wink and Matthew Peden as New Zealand pressed from the outset. Tuvalu defended bravely, with goalkeeper Katepu Iosua producing a string of fine saves to keep the scoreline respectable.
Manickum eventually broke the deadlock, finishing after a neat exchange with Wink. En Watanabe quickly doubled the advantage, before Wink and Peden added further goals. Casey Sharplin rounded out the scoring as New Zealand settled into their rhythm and dominated the first half.
Tuvalu refused to fold, with Maalosi Alefaiao and Jason Alama carrying the threat on the break. Both came close as the visitors searched for a way back, while Iosua continued to stand tall against New Zealand.
The second half saw Tuvalu start strongly, pushing forward through Paolo Vailine and Keni Vine to give their supporters something to cheer. Their energy on the counter and physicality throughout the match demonstrated resilience despite the scoreboard.
Tuvalu finally found the breakthrough as Vine, denied earlier, struck for the nation’s first goal in 14 years. Even as New Zealand retained possession, Tuvalu continued to show fight in the closing exchanges, creating further attacking opportunities that tested the Futsal Whites’ keeper.
New Zealand added one final goal in the last two minutes, extending the lead and giving the team a much-needed boost. Despite the scoreline, Tuvalu can hold their heads high after a spirited performance in their long-awaited return to the OFC Futsal stage.
New Zealand rest up before their next match on Tuesday, while Tuvalu aim to carry their momentum into a clash with hosts Fiji tomorrow.
New Zealand: 6 (Dylan MANICKUM (2), En WATANABE (2), Cooper WINK, Matthew PEDEN)
Tuvalu: 1 (Keni VINE)
HT: 5-0