Brian is Back: national team captain is home alongside three more Australian-based players heading for OFC Nations Cup

Vanuatu national football team captain Brian Kaltak has returned to Port Vila, ready to lead his team in the upcoming OFC Nations Cup. Kaltak, a standout defender for the Central Coast Mariners, the current A-League champions, arrived in Port Vila accompanied by three other Australia-based players: defenders Jared Clark and Jeffrey Taso, and striker Alex Saniel. The four players are crucial to the team’s strategy under head coach Juliano Schmeling.

Kaltak’s presence is a significant boost for Vanuatu’s national team. As captain, his leadership and experience will be vital as the team embarks on their quest for regional glory. His recent success with the Central Coast Mariners, where he played a pivotal role in their championship-winning campaign, adds a level of expertise and confidence to the squad.

Joining Kaltak are Jared Clark and Jeffrey Taso, both defenders with substantial experience in Australian football, and Alex Saniel, a prolific striker known for his goal-scoring abilities. Alex Saniel made a lot of success in Fiji for teams like Lautoka and Suva in the past before moving to State League 2 side Nothern Demons. These players bring a wealth of talent and international experience to the team, making Vanuatu a formidable contender in the tournament.

Vanuatu is set to kick off their campaign against the Solomon Islands on Saturday, 15th June, at Freshwater Stadium. This opening match is highly anticipated, as both teams are known for their competitive spirit and footballing prowess. The encounter promises to be an exciting start to the tournament, with Vanuatu looking to leverage their home advantage and the expertise of their Australian-based stars.

The OFC Nations Cup is a significant event in the region, offering teams the opportunity to showcase their talents and compete for the prestigious title. For Vanuatu, the return of their captain and key players bolsters their chances of advancing far in the competition. Fans and supporters are eagerly awaiting the team’s performance, hopeful that their nation’s colors will shine brightly on the regional stage.