Tahiti defeats Vanuatu 18-1 in OFC Beach Soccer Nations Cup

Tahiti opened their OFC Beach Soccer Men’s Nations Cup 2026 campaign with an 18-1 victory over Vanuatu at Aorai Tini Hau. The host nation, known as the Tiki Toa, dominated the match with eight goals in the first period, seven in the second, and three in the third.

Three Tahitian players recorded hat-tricks during the match. Ro’onui Tinirauarii scored five goals, Roonui Lesca scored three, and Heirauarii Salem recorded a hat-trick that included a long-range overhead kick. Other scorers for Tahiti included Tearii Labaste, Matatia Paama, and Gervais Chan Kat.

Vanuatu’s lone goal was scored by Batis Alick in the 19th minute. This match marked Vanuatu’s return to the competition after a seven-year absence.