Fifth Oceania title for Kurukuru
Kurukuru have confirmed their placement to represent the Oceania region in the upcoming FIFA Futsal World Cup in Colombia, South America.
This followed their 5-0 win against hosts Fiji at the Vodafone Arena in Suva, Fiji, last Saturday.
A four goal lead in the first half was enough for the Oceania champions to clearly see their victory in advance.
Kurukuru captain Elliot Ragomo lead the way again just as he did in two previous matches, firing home the opening goal six minutes from kick off.
Jack Wetney scored the second a minute later followed by Coleman Makau’s goal and the fourth by Robert Laua just before the half time whistle.
The second half was a bit tough with the Fijians tightening up their defence which saw Kurukuru managing only a goal by Laua for his second.
The win completes their undefeated run in the 2015 Oceania Championship.
This fifth and final victory for Kurukuru sees them become the first Oceania nation to secure five OFC Futsal Championship titles.
This victory could not have been a dream come for Kurukuru if it was not for the master minder, Brazilian Coach Juliano Schmeling.
Schmeling took the Kurukuru boys for training only a few months ago and tried every possible way to prepare the team for the championship.
Despite the short time, with the knowledge acquired by the Kurukuru players and their trust in each other, they came back and defended the title for the fifth time in a row.
The Kurukuru team showed their appreciation for Schmeling by hoisting and parading him in the Vodafone Arena after the end of the match with Fiji.
The FIFA Futsal World Cup kicks off on September 10.
By CARLOS ARUAFU
