Nukuhetulu FC secured Tonga’s slot for the OFC Men’s Champions League Qualifier 2026 after winning the Challenge Cup.
The Tonga Football Association’s Prize Giving Ceremony, held after last weekend’s Annual General Meeting, celebrated a record 2024–25 season. Nukuhetulu emerged Challenge Cup champions following a dramatic 4–2 penalty shootout against Lavengatonga after a 1–1 draw.
The side also topped the Senior Men’s Division in the Major League, netting a $10,000 TOP grand prize. They dominated youth competitions too, triumphing in Under‑16 and Under‑14 Girls divisions, highlighting the strength of their development pathway. The season’s incentive pool exceeded $70,000 TOP, showcasing investment in grassroots football.
Individual honours included Lavengatonga’s Kulisitofa Kite as Top Goal Scorer, Manase Talakai as Best Goalkeeper, and Nukuhetulu’s ‘Unaloto ‘Aho was named Player of the Tournament.
The event also recognised the first stage of the Heilala Manongi women’s competition, with Veitongo FC narrowly defeating Nukuhetulu Women in extra time. Stage two, featuring Vava’u champions, is set to begin soon.
With this double domestic success, Nukuhetulu now prepare to represent Tonga at the regional OFC level as they focus on their build‑up ahead of the Samoa qualifier in January 2026.
