The Vanuatu Prime Minister says the men's Under 20 football team have put the country on the world map.
Charlot Salwai confirmed that the Council of Ministers will organise a formal reception to recognise the players and management of the Vanuatu Football Federation for their performance at the World Cup in South Korea.
He made the statement on Sunday in front of more than 1000 football fans who gathered at the Independence Park in Port Vila to welcome the team home.
RNZI reports the Wantoks were narrowly beaten 3-2 against both Mexico and Germany either side of a 7-0 thrashing by Venezuela during their maiden appearance at an eleven-a-side FIFA tournament.
Prime Minister Salwai said he was very proud to see Vanuatu's name appearing on TV screens worldwide during the tournament, saying
He added, that even though Vanuatu did not win any of its games, a lot of people respect and have come to recognise Vanuatu through football because of their performances in Korea.
Photo by Vanuafoot: PM Charlot Salwai (left) with Vanuatu U 20 Head Coach Dejan Gluscevic (centre)