Aplotu FC from South Santo has claimed the 2025 Tuna Cup Championship, walking away with the top prize of VT150,000 after defeating powerhouse Classic FC 2-0 in the final match held last weekend in Luganville.
Tournament Run and Victory
The emerging club, which competes in the Premier Division of the Luganville Football Association (LFA), delivered a strong performance throughout the tournament. Following a knockout format, Aplotu FC won every match, establishing itself as a rising force in Santo football.
The final saw Aplotu FC control the game against Classic FC, a seasoned team known for its consistency in LFA competitions. The 2-0 scoreline sealed Aplotu’s place as champions of this year’s Tuna Cup.
Beyond Football: Promoting Marine Awareness
During the prize-giving ceremony, Clay Sara, Fisheries Officer for Sanma Province, drew parallels between football and marine conservation, emphasizing discipline and rules as shared values.
“Understanding marine laws is just as important as understanding the rules of football,” Sara said.
He announced that the new Ministry of Maritime, Oceans and Fisheries plans to use football as a tool for raising awareness about marine resource protection across communities.
Tournament Highlights and Prizes
In the third-place playoff, Malampa Revivors defeated Vaum FC to secure the bronze position.
Prize Breakdown:
- 1st Place (Aplotu FC) – VT150,000
- 2nd Place (Classic FC) – VT100,000
- 3rd Place (Malampa Revivors) – VT50,000
- 4th Place (Vaum FC) – VT30,000
The 2025 Tuna Cup not only celebrated football excellence but also opened a pathway to integrate sports and sustainable marine awareness, as efforts grow to protect Vanuatu’s ocean resources.
