PNG stun Vanuatu

Papua New Guinea Kapuls have come from behind to upset Vanuatu with a 2-1 victory in the opening match of the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) Prime Minister’s Cup today (September 18th) at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva, Fiji.

The 2025 grand finalists delivered an entertaining and arm-wrestling 45-minute contest, leaving the score sheet clean at the break.

After the breather, Vanuatu broke the deadlock in the 77th minute through Tony Kaltak. However, Nalau Moses scored the equalizer in the 85th minute before Ezekiel Vela put the game beyond doubt in the 89th minute.

Coach Bob Morris said: “I thank the players for the win. The boys wanted to win, that’s why they kept on holding the shape. Even though Vanuatu scored first, we were lucky to equalize and win the game.” 

Vanuatu will face the hosts Fiji on Monday, September 21st, while PNG will square off against New Caledonia next Thursday, September 25th.  

PNG and Vanuatu met in the 2025 MSG Prime Minister’s Cup Grand Final in Port Moresby. The Ni-Vanuatu walked away with the title after upsetting PNG 5-4 in a penalty shootout.  

Meanwhile, in the women’s fixture, the PNG Bilums smashed Fiji Kulas 4-0 earlier today. The Bilums and Kapuls opened their campaign with wins and hope to maintain their winning momentum in round 2. 

PC: Fiji Football Association