Vanuatu Stay Perfect In U-16 Men's Qualifying With Big Win

The Melanesian side delivered a ruthless attacking display, Franso Shem, Rohan Masauvakalo, and Titus Robert, leading the way with a hat-trick each as Vanuatu equalled their largest victory in an OFC U-16 competition - a 20-0 win over Tonga in 2005.

Shem was the first to get off the mark inside the first 90 seconds, followed by Robert as Vanuatu opened up a five-goal lead inside 15 minutes.

Masauvakalo was the pick of the goalscorers through the first half, scoring five as Vanuatu went into the break 13 goals ahead – taking his tally to seven after scoring twice against Tonga in their previous match.

Vanuatu added seven more in the second half, half-time substitute Ettien Vuti resuming the scoring and grabbing a double.

Chimarco Vanuaroro and Matthew Naviti also got in on the action with goals off the bench late on, as Vanuatu closed out the win.

It's a result that puts Vanuatu into pole position to qualify for OFC U-16 Men's Championship 2026 in July, whilst American Samoa have been eliminated from contention.

Vanuatu: 20 (Franso SHEM 2’, 45+3’, 53’, Titus ROBERT 3’, 15’, 35’, 52’, Own Goal 9’, 24’, 81’ Rohan MASAUVAKALO 11’, 21’, 43’, 44’, 45+5’, Brent KALUAT 28’, Ettien VUTI 49’, 57’, Chimarco VANUARORO 72’, Mathew NAVITI 83’) 
American Samoa: 0 

HT: 13-0

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