Port Vila, 7 July 2026: The Minister responsible for Sports, Hon. Job Andy, has welcomed home Vanuatu’s men’s and women’s national football teams following their participation in the MSG Prime Ministers Cup in Suva, Fiji.

Both teams made sporting history for Vanuatu during the tournament by reaching their respective grand finals.

The Vanuatu Women’s National Football Team delivered a historic performance, defeating long-time Oceania champions Papua New Guinea in a dramatic penalty shootout to claim the gold medal.

In the men’s final, Vanuatu put up a strong fight against host nation Fiji but went down 1-0, securing the silver medal.

Minister Andy was at the airport to welcome the players, coaching staff and officials upon their arrival. The teams later took part in a parade through Port Vila, which concluded at Freshwota Stadium.

In his remarks, Minister Andy congratulated both teams on their outstanding achievements, saying their performances had made the people of Vanuatu extremely proud.

He also commended the players and officials for the determination, commitment and fighting spirit they demonstrated throughout the competition.

The Sports Minister reminded the players that Vanuatu will host the second edition of the MSG Prime Ministers Cup in 2027, saying the entire country would be behind both national teams as they aim for the top honours on home soil.

Vanuatu Football Federation President Lambert Maltock also praised the strong performances of both teams, noting that it had taken many years for Vanuatu football to reach this level of success in regional competition.

He said that although Vanuatu is a small country with a relatively small population, its performances on the football field continue to earn greater recognition and respect from other nations.

Mr Maltock encouraged players who wish to pursue football as a career to remain disciplined, committed and hardworking. He urged them to strive for higher levels of competition, including the OFC Pro League, and to position themselves for opportunities to play professionally overseas and build a livelihood through football.

Looking ahead, Mr Maltock highlighted several major competitions on Vanuatu’s football calendar in 2027, including the Olympic Qualifiers, OFC Pro League and Pacific Games, where Vanuatu is expected to compete.

The achievements of the men’s and women’s national teams at the MSG Prime Ministers Cup represent another important milestone for Vanuatu football and provide further encouragement for the nation’s players as they prepare for another busy year of regional competition.