Tri-Nations: Vanuatu beats Fiji at Churchill Park

In a thrilling debut match for both national teams in the competition, Vanuatu emerged victorious with a 2-1 win over Fiji in the Tri-Nations friendly tournament. The game started with Vanuatu looking the better side, and they managed to score the first goal of the match through Ifira Black Bird’s Jonathan Spokeyjack at the 18th minute.

However, Fiji was not willing to go down without a fight, and they managed to equalize through Patrick Joseph, who scored from a penalty kick. The scoreline remained 1-1 at halftime, with both teams looking to take control of the game in the second half.

The second half started with Vanuatu once again showing their attacking intent, and it did not take long for them to take the lead again. Ba’s midfielder Claude Aru scored a beautiful goal from a free-kick, putting Vanuatu ahead once again.

Despite Fiji’s best efforts to find an equalizer, they were unable to break through Vanuatu’s defense. The final score of the game was 2-1 in favor of Vanuatu, much to the delight of their coach, Etienne Mermer.

This match was also the first game for Fiji’s interim head coach, Marika Rodu, who will have a lot to ponder after this defeat. Overall, it was an exciting match between Vanuatu and Fiji senior teams in the Tri-Nations friendly tournament, with Vanuatu emerging as the deserved winners.