Brian Kaltak: Vanuatu’s football hero scores his first professional goal

In a historic moment for Vanuatu football, national team captain Brian Kaltak has notched his first professional goal for the Central Coast Mariners last week (Oct, 4th), marking a significant milestone in his career. The central defender made headlines with his impressive performance as the Mariners cruised to a commanding 9-1 victory over Stallions from the Philippines in the second round of the AFC Cup’s pool stage. Kaltak’s journey to this memorable moment has been a remarkable; at 30 years of age, he is currently the most prominent footballer to emerge from Vanuatu.

Kaltak’s historic moment came during a match in which the Central Coast Mariners dominated Stallions from the Philippines, winning convincingly with a final scoreline of 9-1. The match showcased Kaltak’s versatility, as he managed to contribute not only defensively but also on the offensive end. He seized an opportunity during a corner kick and delivered a precise shot that left the Stallions’ goalkeeper with no chance, securing the fourth goal for the Mariners in the game. You can watch the play by clicking here.

Prior to this remarkable achievement, Kaltak had already made history by becoming the first-ever Vanuatu player to compete in an international competition outside of the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC). This occurred during the Mariners’ debut away match in Malaysia, where they faced Terengganu. Despite a surprising 1-0 defeat, Kaltak’s presence on the field underscored his growing influence on the Mariners’ defensive line.

Brian Kaltak’s professional journey is emblematic of the progress and potential of football in Vanuatu and the Oceania region. His dedication and talent have earned him a coveted spot in the Australian professional league, where he played a vital role in the Mariners’ A-League championship win in the previous season. As a leader, a defender, and now a goal scorer, Kaltak’s story continues to inspire and shine a light on the growing prominence of football in Vanuatu.