As the 2025 VFF Champions League group stage wraps up, a curious trend is emerging—all yellow card recipients so far come from island-based teams.

These clubs represent communities across the archipelago from Torba down to Tafea Province. Their players have shown impressive commitment, hunger, and talent, yet they also lead the tournament in disciplinary cautions. Not one player from Port Vila-based or urban clubs has received a card yet.

So what’s going on?

It’s Not Just About Fouls. It’s About Context.

It’s easy to look at a stat sheet and say, “island teams are undisciplined.” But that’s a lazy take. The truth is more complex—and more important.

Players from the islands often play with more intensity and emotion. They are used to different refereeing styles in local competitions where some physical contact is part of the game. When they arrive in a national tournament with stricter officiating, that passion can turn into cautions—even if their intent isn’t malicious.

The Pressure of Representation

These players aren’t just playing for a club. They’re representing islands, languages, families, and flags. The pressure is heavy. Sometimes too heavy. In their eyes, every tackle is a statement, and every challenge is a chance to prove their worth to people watching back home.

With that emotional burden comes risk. And yellow cards.

Development, Not Discipline

The cards aren’t a sign of poor discipline—they’re a sign that more investment is needed in game awareness, referee education, and coaching support for island teams.

If we want island footballers to rise even higher, we need to equip them with the same tools urban players have access to: tactical training, exposure to elite referees, and structured development environments.

This is not a critique. It’s a call. Island football is strong. Let’s help make it smarter.

---

Want to see Vanuatu football truly grow? Let’s start supporting all corners of the country—not just the big teams.