In an exciting start to the 2025 OFC Futsal Men’s Champions League, Waikato Rapids put on a stellar performance against Gulf Komara FC at the Vodafone Arena in Suva. This match was particularly significant as it marked the inaugural appearance of both teams in the tournament, with Waikato representing New Zealand and Gulf Komara debuting for Papua New Guinea.
The game kicked off with remarkable intensity as Casey Sharplin quickly spotted an opening, assisting Maxwell Ericksen in scoring a goal just 20 seconds into the match. This early lead set the tone for Waikato, with Hemi Hines later extending their advantage to 2-0 before halftime.
As the second half commenced, Gulf Komara FC rallied to find their rhythm and netted their first goal, courtesy of captain Troy Dobbin, who skillfully maneuvered through the Waikato defense. However, the New Zealand side quickly countered, with Ericksen showcasing his skill by netting his second goal, pushing the scoreline to 3-1.
While Gulf Komara continued to fight, they faced further challenges, including a frustrating own goal that added to their woes. Waikato seized the opportunity to further solidify their lead, with players like Cooper Wink, George Dixon, Keena Howard, and Davis Vhavha all contributing to a commanding final score of 8-1.
Despite the overwhelming loss, Gulf Komara’s goalkeeper, Willie Gerega, displayed commendable resilience, making several key saves to prevent an even larger scoreline. Waikato’s dominant performance not only establishes them as strong contenders moving forward in the tournament but also reflects their tactical preparation and skill, setting a promising tone for the matches ahead. Their success may serve as motivation for other teams in the league, underscoring the potential for an exciting competition.