Vanuatu national senior team came from behind to beat neighbour New Caledonia 2-1 in their second international friendly on Saturday at Port Vila stadium.
Both teams ended up with no goals in the first half and found it hard to play in a slippery condition at Port Vila Stadium.
After the break it was the visitors who continued to pressure high and all their hard work paid off when their captain Betrand Kai finally slotted in a perfect shot past Vanuatu keeper, Selonie Iaruel.
Just after few minutes, Moise Poida’s boys continued to play smart and played their style of football when the yellow captain, Fenedy Masauvakalo leveled in style as the crowd went wild.
And just five minutes to play, Vanuatu attacking midfielder, Nemani Rogara was fouled by a New Caledonia defender in the penalty box and the Fijian referee blew for a Vanuatu penalty shoot against Les Cagous.
Vanuatu and Solomon Warriors FC defender, Brian Kaltakc stepped up and made no mistake as he took a powerful penalty shot and hit the back of the Gray’s net.
This is Vanuatu’s second win over one of the strongest football nation in Oceania and gives coach Moise Poida a very good Easter weekend.
“I am very happy that my players can play as a team and win this important international friendly against one of the best teams in Oceania.” Said Moise Poida.
“We respect New Caledonia a lot and a win today and yesterday at Teouma Football Academy is good news for Vanuatu Football Federation.”
“I saluted my players because we were down 1-0 and they worked extra hard and help us win the match.”
“I thank the fans who came out to support us today and we will continue to work hard in training towards PNG OFC Nations Cup in Papua New Guinea in May 2016.” He concluded.
New Caledonia will travel back to New Caledonia on Sunday.