Vanuatu and Fiji split a 2-2 draw at VFF Freshwater Stadium in Port Vila tonight, a useful stress test for both Juliano Schmeling and M. Rodu as they fine-tune plans for the next Oceania window.
The Bula Boys were handed the initiative in the 21st minute when J. Thomas diverted the ball past his own goalkeeper, gifting Fiji the opener. Vanuatu refused to wilt. Azaria Soromon levelled in the 35th minute, a response that steadied Schmeling’s reshaped squad and re-engaged a restless crowd. Roy Krishna restored Fiji’s advantage in the 40th minute, his timing once again decisive for Rodu’s side. Alex Saniel equalised in the 49th minute, restoring parity and validating Schmeling’s decision to lean on domestic attackers for this camp.
Understand Rodu wanted clearer vertical routes into Krishna and got spells of control, yet Fiji’s back line never truly settled after the interval. Schmeling rotated his forward options across the window and was repaid with Soromon’s energy and Saniel’s composure, though the early lapse from Thomas underlined the defensive volatility that still stalks this group. The absence of full competitive rhythm showed in the tempo swings: Fiji sharper before half-time, Vanuatu pressing higher and winning second balls once the benches opened up.
Key numbers:
- Final score: Vanuatu 2 - 2 Fiji
- Goals: J. Thomas (own goal) 21', Azaria Soromon 35', Roy Krishna 40', Alex Saniel 49'
Both coaches leave with positives. Schmeling can cite resilience and a productive domestic core, while Rodu saw Krishna stay clinical and his press create problems. The focus now shifts to the upcoming Oceania qualifiers, where these sides will need cleaner defensive execution. For more from this international slate, read our preview of China vs Thailand.
