New Caledonia’s AS PTT beats Solomon Islands’ Mataks to win OFC Futsal Champions League

In an electrifying showcase of futsal prowess, AS PTT emerged triumphant in a nail-biting finale against Mataks FC, seizing the coveted crown of the second edition of the OFC Futsal Men’s Champions League held in New Caledonia.

The exhilarating clash unfolded at the Arene du Sud in Paita, near Noumea, where nearly 2,000 fervent supporters filled the arena to capacity, igniting an atmosphere charged with anticipation and fervor.

AS PTT’s journey to glory culminated in a spectacular 4-3 victory over Mataks FC, a testament to their unwavering skill and determination on the court. The match reached a crescendo when Christ Pei etched his name in the annals of futsal history with a breathtaking bicycle kick goal, propelling AS PTT to a 3-2 lead with just over four minutes remaining. This moment of brilliance was swiftly followed by Jymaẽl Upa’s decisive tap-in, securing the championship for AS PTT amidst a tumultuous roar of celebration from their loyal supporters.

The showdown between these formidable opponents had been foreshadowed by a captivating 1-1 draw during round-robin play earlier in the tournament, setting the stage for a showdown of epic proportions.

From the outset, the intensity of the game was palpable, with both sides displaying a formidable array of skills and tactics. AS PTT seized the initiative with an early goal from Upa in the 5th minute, sending the home crowd into a frenzy of jubilation. However, Mataks FC swiftly retaliated, courtesy of a moment of brilliance from their captain, Ellis Mana, leveling the scores and setting the stage for a fiercely contested battle.

As the game progressed, Emmanuel Hmaen’s clinical finish in the 23rd minute provided AS PTT with a slender lead, only to be nullified by Clifford Misitana’s equalizer for Mataks FC. With the tension mounting and the prospect of extra time looming, Pei’s awe-inspiring goal tilted the scales decisively in AS PTT’s favor, paving the way for their eventual triumph.

Mataks FC demonstrated remarkable resilience in the dying moments of the game, as Billy Afi’s late goal injected a final surge of drama into the proceedings. However, it was AS PTT who emerged victorious, etching their name in futsal regional scenario with a thrilling 4-3 triumph.

In the battle for bronze, Vanuatu’s UNV FC showcased their mettle with a hard-fought 2-0 victory over Suva FC from Fiji, securing a podium finish in a fiercely contested encounter.

The conclusion of the OFC Futsal Men’s Champions League marked a fitting climax to an exhilarating tournament, showcasing the finest talents and exhilarating moments that futsal has to offer. AS PTT’s crowning achievement stands as a testament to their skill, determination, and unwavering spirit in pursuit of glory on the futsal regional stage.