Richard Iwai

Club

Iwai began his career with local side Tafea F.C. in the Port Vila Football League. He moved abroad in 2003, joining Suva FC of the Fiji Premier League, before returning to Tafea. In 2004, he moved to Australian club Mitchelton FC of the Queensland Premier League, the top-tier league of Queensland. He made his league debut for the club against Brisbane City FC, scoring a goal and being named the Man of the Match. At the time, Iwai and teammate Etienne Mermer were Vanuatu's first and only players to ever play abroad. After another return to Tafea in 2006, Iwai rejoined Michelton FC until 2008. He had a final stint with Michelton, signing a three-month contract in June 2011. He made his first appearance back with the club in a 2–2 draw with Queensland Lions FC in which he was named Man of the Match. While at the club, he formed an attacking partnership with Fijian international striker Esala Masi. About rejoining Mitchelton, the player said, “I am excited about playing here again. I still have a lot of friends here and, whenever I get the opportunity to play, I will try to do my best for the club...I am really happy there (Tafea) and everyone knows Tafea is my club. Of course, I will miss Tafea, the boss, the players and my family.”

International

With twenty international goals, Iwai is Vanuatu's all-time top goalscorer. He made his senior international debut on 11 April 2000 in a 2000 Melanesia Cup match against Fiji. He went on to earn thirty-four caps…

International goals

Scores and results list Vanuatu's goal tally first.

International career statistics

As of match played 24 January 2011

Player

Vanuatu

Pacific Games: Bronze Medalist, 2003, 2007

Manager

Vanuatu

MSG Prime Minister's Cup: 2025; Runner-Up, 2026