The final match of the 2024 CIFA Knockout Competition, played on Wednesday, was the perfect conclusion to an action-packed season, as Tupapa-Maraerenga Football Club and Nikao Sokattak Football Club clashed in one of the most intense and dramatic Premier Men's games seen in recent years.

The CIFA Knockout Finals brought together two of the most competitive teams on the island, with Tupapa-Maraerenga FC coming off a dominant 3-1 victory against Puaikura FC in the semi-finals, while Nikao Sokattak FC had earned their spot in the final after a nerve-wracking 4-3 penalty shootout win over Matavera-Ngatangiia FC in the previous week. Both teams were eager to claim the prestigious title, and the atmosphere at the stadium was electric, with passionate supporters from around the island filling the stands to cheer on their teams.

Tupapa-Maraerenga, known for their dominance in both attack and defense throughout the season, entered the match with high expectations. However, the first half saw them struggle to break down Nikao Sokattak’s solid defense. Nikao’s defenders, Nia Remuera and Tamaiva Mateariki, kept the Tupapa forwards at bay, while Kima Webb and Paavo Mustonen pushed forward in the midfield under the guidance of Grover Harmon. Despite their pressure, Tupapa was unable to score in the first 45 minutes and found themselves trailing 2-0 at halftime.

Nikao Sokattak, on the other hand, were in high spirits after a well-executed first half. The opening goal came from Temaiva Mateariki, who powered home a header from a corner kick. Nikao’s second goal came just before the halftime whistle, with Leo Roa slotting the ball past Tupapa’s goalkeeper, Mana Pierre, making it 2-0 to Nikao.

However, Tupapa’s never-say-die attitude came through in the second half. The attacking duo of Tahitoa Webb and Tuffy Ngametua, both clinical in front of goal throughout the season, proved why they are considered some of the best forwards in the competition. Webb found the back of the net in quick succession, cutting the deficit to 2-1. However, Tupapa responded again with an insane goal from John Noovao. Noovao placed a well-struck long ball that just grazed the goalkeeper’s fingertips and sailed over the goal line, levelling the score at 2-2.

Minutes before the final whistle, it was Ngametua Tuakana that scored Tupapa’s third goal of the match putting them in lead 2-3. But Nikao was not done yet. Owenne Matapo put Nikao back in the match with a dramatic equaliser, tying the game 3-3. The match played on, but neither team was able to break the deadlock, setting up a penalty shootout that had the fans on the edge of their seats.

In the shootout, Tupapa kept their cool, converting all their penalties, and secured the victory 4-3 in the shootout.

Tupapa Maraerenga FC defeated Nikao 4-3 in penalty shootout to claim the CIFA Knockout Cup. CIFA MEDIA/24121910

The Senior Women’s final was no less exciting, with Tupapa-Maraerenga FC facing off against Avatiu FC. Both teams played with heart and skill, showing why they were worthy finalists. Tupapa’s Jan-Marie Taia opened the scoring in the first half, putting her team in the lead. In the second half, Mii-Piri Savage doubled Tupapa’s advantage with a brilliant header in front of the goal.

Avatiu, a team known for their grit and determination, responded late in the game, with Mahana Sijp scoring a well-taken goal minutes before the final whistle. However, despite their best efforts, Avatiu was unable to find an equaliser, and the match ended with Tupapa securing a 2-1 victory.

This win not only earned Tupapa the CIFA Knockout Cup but also made them the first club in Cook Islands football history to win both the Senior Women’s and Premier Men’s titles in the same year — a feat they also achieved in 2019.

Tupapa-Maraerenga FC’s victory in both the Senior Women’s and Premier Men’s divisions at the 2024 CIFA Knockouts marks the second time in Cook Islands football history that a single club has claimed both cups in the same year.

• CIFA Media

Results

Under 6 Mix Tupapa Maraerenga FC vs. Puaikura FC 2-5; Under 8 Mix

Avatiu FC vs. Titikaveka FC 8-0; Under 10 Mix Matavera-Ngatangiia FC vs. Titikaveka FC 4-3; Under 12 Mix Avatiu FC vs Titikaveka FC 2-0; Under 15 Boys Nikao Sokattak FC vs. Avatiu FC (PS 5-4 Nikao Sokattak); Under 15 Girls Tupapa-Maraerenga FC vs. Titikaveka FC 4-1; Under 18 Men Avatiu FC vs. Matavera-Ngatangiia FC 3-1; Senior Women Tupapa-Maraerenga FC vs Avatiu FC 2-1; Premier Men Tupapa-Maraerenga FC vs. Nikao Sokattak FC 3-3 (PS 4-3 Tupapa-Maraerenga).