The opening half saw both sides test each other cautiously. Tahiti United’s midfield, led by captain Tamahere Maro, controlled possession but struggled to break through a well-organized Vanuatu defense. The deadlock was broken in the 34th minute when Tahiti striker Raihau Temarii latched onto a through ball and slotted calmly past the Vanuatu goalkeeper. The home crowd erupted, but their joy was short-lived. Just before the halftime whistle, Vanuatu’s Jean-Pierre Tari equalized with a powerful header from a corner kick, sending the teams into the break at 1–1.

Second half drama and final score

The second half continued in the same competitive vein. Vanuatu took the lead in the 63rd minute through a well-worked counter-attack finished by forward Samuel Kalsakau. Facing a deficit, Tahiti United pushed forward relentlessly. Their persistence paid off in the 81st minute when substitute Vatea Teva struck a low drive from the edge of the box that crept inside the post. Both teams had chances to snatch a winner in the closing stages, but solid goalkeeping and wayward shooting ensured the match ended 2–2. The point keeps both sides in the middle of the OFC P L table as they look ahead to crucial fixtures.

Match summary

• Date: 13 May 2026
• Venue: (Likely neutral or Tahiti home ground)
• Result: Tahiti United FC 2–2 Vanuatu United FC
• Scorers: Raihau Temarii (34′), Vatea Teva (81′); Jean-Pierre Tari (45′), Samuel Kalsakau (63′)
• Key stat: Both teams recorded 5 shots on target each.

League context

The OFC P L, the top-flight competition in Oceania, continues to showcase fierce rivalries among Pacific island clubs. This result leaves both Tahiti United and Vanuatu United with work to do if they hope to challenge for the title. The draw extends the unbeaten run for both sides in recent meetings, reinforcing the parity that defines the league.