Vanuatu Women Defeat PNG To Claim Historic MSG Prime Minister’s Cup

VANUATU have ended Papua New Guinea's title defence in dramatic fashion, claiming their maiden MSG Prime Minister’s Cup after a 6-4 penalty shootout victory in the final in Suva, Fiji, today.

The Vanuatu women's national team overcame the defending champions after the match finished 1-1 in regulation time, with a composed performance from the players delivering the country's first-ever title in the competition.

 Vanuatu Women Defeat PNG To Claim Historic MSG Prime Minister’s Cup/Photo Vanuatu Football

The victory was secured through the efforts of Leimata Simon, who scored Vanuatu's equaliser before converting the decisive penalty to complete a memorable performance in the final.

Goalkeeper Nelly Reddy was equally influential, denying Papua New Guinea from the penalty spot during the shootout and helping her teammates maintain their advantage in the decisive moments.

The result represents a historic breakthrough for Vanuatu women's football, with the national team achieving a milestone that reflects years of development and growing competitiveness in the Pacific region.

Head coach Emerson Alcantara's side demonstrated considerable improvement throughout the tournament, combining tactical discipline, teamwork and determination to overcome their opponents and reach the championship match.

The coaching staff's preparation and management also played an important part in the team's campaign, with the players showing greater confidence, coordination and understanding of their roles on the field.

Against PNG, Vanuatu displayed the fighting spirit that had carried them through the tournament, refusing to surrender after falling behind and finding the equalising goal to take the match into a penalty shootout.

Simon emerged as the match-winning figure, while Reddy's penalty save provided the crucial opportunity for Vanuatu to take control of the shootout and secure the trophy.

Papua New Guinea, who entered the final as defending champions, were unable to retain their title as Vanuatu capitalised on their opportunities in the decisive moments of the contest.

The championship victory is expected to inspire a new generation of female footballers in Vanuatu and strengthen the country's ambitions to develop its women's game.

With the maiden MSG Prime Minister's Cup now secured, the achievement provides a landmark moment for Alcantara, his technical team and the players who represented Vanuatu throughout the tournament.