11:37 am today

Solomon Islands claims Oceania Futsal Cup

11:37 am today
Team Solomon Islands during the OFC Futsal Men's Cup 2025, Tuvalu v Solomon Islands, Vodafone Arena, Suva, Fiji, Wednesday 24 September 2025. Photo: Kirk Corrie / www.phototek.nz

Solomon Islands has won the Oceania men's futsal cup. Photo: Kirk Corrie / Phototek.nz

Solomon Islands has won the Oceania men's futsal cup.

The Kurukuru beat Tuvalu 7-0 on Wednesdsay in their final game of an unbeaten campaign.

Earlier, New Zealand beat Vanuatu 3-1, but the Kiwis also needed Solomon Islands to draw or lose their game against Tuvalu to win the title.

The Kurukuru's early dominance was rewarded when Calvin Do'oro found space to fire home the opening goal. Soon after, captain Charlie Otainao doubled the advantage and they led 2-0 at halftime.

Solomon Islands Calvin Do'oro during the OFC Futsal Men's Cup 2025, Tuvalu v Solomon Islands, Vodafone Arena, Suva, Fiji, Wednesday 24 September 2025. Photo: Kirk Corrie / www.phototek.nz

Solomon Islands Calvin Do'oro scored the Solomons' first of seven goals against Tuvalu. Photo: Kirk Corrie / Phototek.nz

Three quick goals came in the second half to make the lead 6-0 and then a final goal to Jayson Timi sealed the deal.

Skipper Otainao said he can't express the feeling in words.

"All glory and honour back to God for the victory and winning the tournament," he said.

"I'm very proud for the boys, the team effort, and the boys showcased their talent."

Coach Dickson Kadau said the team really stepped up in the tournament.

"In our preparation we tell the boys that we go there not to show the skills that we have but we are there to fight," he said.

He said fans see that the Kurukuru are turning the page.

"For five to six years we were not there so we're working hard so we make a new history for the Kurukuru."