Cooks secure strong win over Tahiti

The Cook Islands won against Tahiti in their second of two friendlies against the French overseas territory.

After falling to a 3-1 defeat in the opening match of the series, the Cook Islands responded in impressive fashion, showing resilience, character, and growing confidence under newly appointed head coach Rhys Ruka.

The second match would end in a 3-2 win for the hosts, marking the first time the Cooks has won a senior international match on home soil, and the first time it has hosted one since 1998.

Benjamin Mata was the star of the night, netting twice for the Cook Islands to give his side a crucial edge. Tremaine Rimene-Albrett also found the back of the net, adding the third goal that helped secure the historic victory. Despite a strong challenge from Tahiti, the Cook Islands remained composed and held firm to claim the 3-2 win.

Head coach Rhys Ruka praised his players following the final whistle, expressing his satisfaction with the performance and the progress his squad continues to make.

“I am happy with the boys’ performance tonight,” Ruka said. “We are still a young squad and many of these players are still getting used to playing alongside each other. There is a lot of potential within this group, and we will continue building as we prepare for our next two friendly matches in Tahiti in November.”