Vanuatu valiant efforts fell short to stronger Lebanon in Intercontinental Cup debut in India

In their first match at the Intercontinental Cup, the Vanuatu national football team faced a tough challenge against Lebanon. Despite the Middle Eastern team being ranked 65 positions above Vanuatu, the underdogs put up a valiant effort against their more formidable opponents. Coached by Etienne Mermer, the Vanuatu side demonstrated determination and resilience throughout the game.

The first half of the match ended in a goalless draw, with Vanuatu’s captain, Brian Kaltak, leading the defensive line admirably. Goalkeeper Massing Kalotang made some crucial saves, frustrating the Lebanese attackers and keeping his team in the game. The Vanuatu defense, with Kaltak at the helm, successfully kept Lebanon at bay, denying them any clear scoring opportunities.

It was in the second half when the goals started to flow – as Kaltak was subbed off giving place to Ifira’s Jean-Pierre Taussi, possibly due the fatigue he was imposed in the final A-League run, also certainly making Vanuatu’s back line weaker.

Lebanon broke the deadlock through a set-piece play, allowing Nader Matar to volley the ball into the net and put his team in the lead. However, Vanuatu responded swiftly. Just three minutes later, Jonathan Spokeyjack was fouled near the box, leading to a free-kick opportunity for Vanuatu. Jean-Pierre Taussi stepped up to take the free-kick, and although the Lebanese goalkeeper managed to punch the ball away, the rebound fell to John Wohale of Ifira Black Bird, who made no mistake in equalizing the match.

Vanuatu’s spirited display continued, and they managed to hold Lebanon at bay for an additional ten minutes. However, a defensive lapse during another set-piece allowed Hassan Maatouk to find Hassan Kourani unmarked in the penalty box. Kourani headed the ball past Kalotang, giving Lebanon the lead once again.

In the dying minutes of the game, Vanuatu’s fatigue started to show, and they conceded a penalty when Jason Thomas fouled Karim Darwiche inside the box. Darwiche confidently converted the penalty kick, extending Lebanon’s lead and securing a 3-1 victory for his team.

Despite the defeat, Vanuatu’s performance was commendable. They managed to hold their own against a significantly stronger opponent, and the scoreline reflected a respectable outcome. However, as the game progressed, fatigue seemed to affect the Vanuatu side, particularly in the final 20 minutes, where they struggled to create further scoring opportunities.

Vanuatu’s journey in the Intercontinental Cup continues as they face India in their next match, scheduled for Monday. The team will undoubtedly be looking to build on their positive aspects from the match against Lebanon and aim for a better result in their upcoming fixture.