New Zealand Clinches OFC Futsal Nations Cup; Solomon Islands Grabs Bronze in Auckland Showdown

Victory Paves Way for 2024 FIFA Futsal World Cup Participation; Ragomo Bids Farewell on a High Note

New Zealand emerged victorious in the Oceania Football Confederations (OFC) Futsal Nations Cup 2023, earning the historic opportunity to represent Oceania, for the very first time, at the 2024 FIFA Futsal World Cup in Uzbekistan. Their hard-fought win against Tahiti was a significant triumph, marking a pioneering moment for New Zealand in the realm of futsal. The Kiwi futsal community will eagerly anticipate how New Zealand Football will strategically utilize this victory and the World Cup to drive the growth of the sport’s development further domestically. The journey forward includes preparing their national team to face formidable opponents from the world’s top futsal nations on the grandest international stage.

(Pictures source: OFC Facebook page)

In the initial stages of the match, both teams displayed high intensity but struggled to create clear scoring opportunities. Rahan Ali of New Zealand had a chance to secure an early advantage but narrowly missed connecting with the ball, and the opportunity slipped away.

However, three minutes later, New Zealand seized an opportunity to break the deadlock. Stephen Ashby-Peckham struck a powerful shot into the top corner after a quick kick-in, capitalizing on a momentary lapse in Tahitian concentration.

Tahiti fought back vigorously, attempting to equalize. Oliver Hirihiri and Akareva Riaria came close, but New Zealand’s goalkeeper, Mike Antamanov, thwarted their attempts. Keanu Maihuri also had a near miss for Tahiti.

New Zealand nearly extended their lead early in the second period, with Rahan Ali hitting both posts with a low effort. Despite this scare, New Zealand managed to secure a second goal when Jordan Ditfort capitalized on a rebound from Dylan Manickum’s shot.

Moments later, Thomas Picken added another goal, bringing New Zealand’s lead to 3-0. As Tahiti pressed forward in search of a foothold in the game, New Zealand took advantage of the situation. Dylan Manickum, the team’s captain, scored a fourth goal, confirming their victory and securing a spot in the World Cup.

Tahiti, however, struggled to find a consolation goal, with Vincent Tinomoe’s effort cleared off the line. Hamish Grey added another goal for New Zealand, sealing their victory and capping off the match.

In the third/fourth place play-off, Solomon Islands’ captain Elliott Ragomo bid farewell to his futsal career on a high note as his team secured the bronze medal in the OFC Futsal Nations Cup final against Fiji. Despite Fiji’s efforts, Solomon Islands emerged victorious with a 5-3 scoreline.

Fiji had early opportunities to take the lead, but Solomon Islands’ goalkeeper, Cliff Sasau, made crucial saves. The Solomon Islands, against the run of play, took the lead through Charlie Otainao. Elis Mana’s stunning shot doubled Fiji’s lead, but Solomon Islands fought back, securing the bronze medal with a 5-3 victory.

Ragomo, a decorated futsal player, announced that this match would mark his last for the Kurukuru. He has had an illustrious career, participating in four World Cups since his debut in 2008. Ragomo holds the distinction of being the only Pacific Islander to play futsal in Brazil’s elite club competition.

A guard of honour for retiring Futsal legend Solomon Island’s Elliot Ragomo. OFC Futsal Nations Cup 2023, Playoff for third place, Fiji v Solomon Islands, Pulman Arena Auckland, Saturday 7th October 2023. Photo: Shane Wenzlick / www.phototek.nz

Elliot Ragomo will always be remembered for his emotional speech at the 2016 FIFA Futsal World Cup after the Solomon Islands played Argentina in the competition: