Vanuatu dethrone Kapuls in epic penalty shoot out

Vanuatu is now champion of the MSG Prime Minister's Football Cup after dethroning the PNG Kapuls in a penalty shootout 2 (5) - 2 (4).

Vanuatu started the game with high spirits, scoring first and leading 1-nil at halftime.

Coming into the second half, Ati Kepo equalised for the home side, and the game concluded with both sides locked at 1-all after full time.

Heading into extra time, Luka Tioni of Vanuatu found the back of the net and the visitors led 2-1, but the home side equalised again thanks to Pala Paul, whose extra-time equaliser sent the game into a penalty shootout.

The Kapuls had the upper hand in the first five kicks with experienced players Daniel Joe and Emmanuel Simon sinking the ball into the net, and Kapuls' goalkeeper Dave Tomare coming up with outstanding saves, but consecutive saves by Vanuatu's Koloran Firiam turned the tide for Vanuatu, with Bryan Kaltack smacking in the goal that saw them triumph and dethrone the Kapuls in Port Moresby.

Kapuls coach David Muta said, despite the result, his players gave their best till the end and commended Vanuatu for their victory.

Vanuatu coach Lars Hopp spoke highly of his team's patience, saying they will now prepare for a rousing reception back home when they return.