Opening the 2025 OFC Futsal Men’s Champions League tournament, Waikato Rapids showcased their talents against Gulf Komara FC at the Vodafone Arena in Suva. This match marked a historic occasion for both teams, with Waikato Rapids representing New Zealand for the first time and Gulf Komara FC making their debut for Papua New Guinea.
The game began with an explosive start as Casey Sharplin quickly recognized an open space in the box, setting up Maxwell Ericksen to score just 20 seconds into the match. Sharplin not only facilitated that early goal but also played a crucial role in orchestrating Waikato’s offensive strategies throughout the game. Hemi Hines added a second goal for Waikato, allowing the team to lead 2-0 at halftime.
In the second half, Gulf Komara FC found their footing and scored their first goal, thanks to a clever maneuver by captain Troy Dobbin, who slipped through Waikato’s defense. However, Waikato responded decisively; Ericksen weaved around the defenders to score his second goal of the match, bringing the score to 3-1.
As the match progressed, Gulf Komara’s struggles intensified, and they conceded an own goal, further diminishing their chances. Waikato continued to dominate, with Cooper Wink, George Dixon, Keena Howard, and Davis Vhavha all contributing to a growing tally of goals.
Despite the scoreline, Gulf Komara’s goalkeeper Willie Gerega put in a commendable effort, halting several attempts from Waikato, but the team ultimately succumbed to an 8-1 loss.
The emphatic victory not only places Waikato Rapids in a strong position as the tournament progresses but also reflects their preparation and strategy, setting an optimistic tone for their upcoming matches. Their ability to adapt and capitalize on opportunities may inspire other teams in the competition as they aim for greater success in the league.