Vanuatu United FC 3–1 Hekari Souths United FC
OFC Professional League | 7 May 2026 | Port Vila, Vanuatu

Vanuatu United FC produced a commanding second‑half performance to overturn a stubborn Hekari Souths United side and claim a 3‑1 victory on home soil in a key OFC Professional League encounter. The win lifted Vanuatu United up the standings and underlined their growing ambitions in the region’s premier club competition.

Match Overview

The match began at a high tempo, with both sides looking to establish control in midfield. Hekari Souths, representing Papua New Guinea, started brightly and took a deserved lead midway through the first half. However, Vanuatu United responded with disciplined pressing and equalised before the interval. In the second half, the home side took full command, adding two more goals to seal a thoroughly professional victory.

Key Moments

• 23’ – Hekari strike first: A rapid counter‑attack caught the Vanuatu defence flat‑footed, allowing Hekari forward David Komolong to coolly slot home past goalkeeper Joshua Taman.
• 38’ – Vanuatu equaliser: A pinpoint cross from the right wing was met by striker Jean‑Paul Nako, who powered a header into the bottom corner to bring the scores level before half‑time.
• 61’ – Vanuatu take the lead: A defensive lapse from Hekari allowed midfielder Francis Waiwo to intercept a loose pass and drive into the box, finishing low to the goalkeeper’s left.
• 79’ – Sealer from the spot: Substitute winger Brian Kaltong was brought down inside the area, and captain Kevin Shem converted the penalty with authority to make it 3–1.

Tactical Story

Vanuatu United head coach Etienne Mermer tweaked his formation after the early setback, shifting to a more aggressive 4‑3‑3 that allowed his wide players to exploit space behind Hekari’s full‑backs. The change paid off handsomely, with the home side creating overloads on the flanks and forcing Hekari into hurried clearances. Hekari Souths, by contrast, faded after a promising opening quarter and struggled to retain possession under sustained pressure.

Standout Performers

• Jean‑Paul Nako (Vanuatu United): A constant threat in the air and on the ground, Nako’s equaliser set the tone for the comeback. His hold‑up play also brought teammates into the game.
• Kevin Shem (Vanuatu United): The captain led by example, dominating midfield battles and delivering a composed penalty to kill off any late Hekari hopes.
• David Komolong (Hekari Souths): Scored a well‑taken opener and remained Hekari’s most dangerous outlet, but lacked support as the match wore on.

Table Impact

The victory moved Vanuatu United into third place in the OFC Professional League standings, with 16 points from nine matches. Hekari Souths remain sixth, five points adrift of the playoff places. The result also strengthened Vanuatu United’s home record – they have now lost only once in Port Vila this season.

What’s Next

Vanuatu United travel to Fiji next weekend to face Labasa FC, while Hekari Souths return to Port Moresby for a crucial derby against Lae City. With the league table tightening, every point will be vital in the race for the OFC Professional League title.