Puaikura FC of the Cook Islands made home advantage count with an opening day victory over Tonga’s Nukuhetulu FC at the OFC Women’s Champions League 2026 – Qualifying in Rarotonga.
The home side were on top for the majority of the contest but did have to contend with a Nukuhetulu side who looked dangerous on the counter, with the open nature of the contest leaving plenty of opportunities at either end.
Despite Puaikura’s dominance, it was Nukuhetulu who had the clearer chances early on, first through Vika Mafi’s effort that dragged wide, before Sophiana Moala forced Rianna Pepe into a smart save at her near post.
The home side made their territorial dominance count however, as they took the lead on the half hour mark. Tearoa Rouru latching onto a perfectly-weighted pass from Victoria Fatiaki and slotting past Carollyne Fotu with aplomb.
Fatiaki had a great chance to double the lead shortly after but skewed her effort wide when given a clear sight on goal.
Puaikura started the second-half the way they ended the first and were awarded a penalty just seven minutes after the restart. Ngamata Moekaa brought down in the box and Primrose Savage confidently slotting the resulting spot-kick past Fotu to double their advantage.
To their credit, Nukuhetulu worked hard to find a way back into the match, despite the hot and humid conditions having a sapping effect on energy levels.
Substitute Lupe Vaea went close as the match headed into stoppage-time, but her effort from range was always rising, narrowly flashing over the bar.
Puaikura held on to secure a crucial opening day win and will now look ahead to securing qualification for the OFC Women’s Champions League, if they can overcome PanSa later this week.
Puaikura FC: 2 (Tearoa ROURU 30′, Primrose SAVAGE (P) 52′)
Nukuhetulu FC: 0
HT: 1-0
Photo Credit: OFC Media via Jaiah Arai