Jacob Moli appointed Interim Head Coach for Solomon Islands national team ahead of OFC Nations Cup 2024

Central Coast FC Head Coach Jacob Moli has been appointed as the interim head coach for the Solomon Islands national football team for the upcoming OFC Nations Cup 2024 in Vanuatu. Moli steps into the role following the unavailability of initially appointed caretaker coach Eddie Marahare.

Jacob Moli is no stranger to the national team, having led the side from 2011 to 2014. His reappointment brings experience and familiarity to the team, as he once again takes on the responsibility of guiding the squad through a significant international tournament.

“It’s always an honour to coach the national team,” Moli shared with SIFF Media. “Throughout the past weeks working with the players available, they have shown enthusiasm, and I trust in their capabilities to deliver.”

Moli has been working with a provisional train-on squad at the SIFF Academy for the past four weeks. Despite the limited preparation time, he remains confident in his players’ abilities to compete at a high level. He is expected to announce his final 23-man squad within the next week.

“It’s quite a challenging process, especially given the short duration to work with the team, but these players are experienced in this level of competition. Our focus now is to continue fostering that culture of excellence,” Moli added.

Moli will be supported by assistant coach Stanley Waita, who has been with the team since the departure of former head coach Felipe Vega-Arango. Together, they aim to build on the team’s strengths and ensure a strong performance at the OFC Nations Cup.

The Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) continues its search for a permanent national head coach, hoping to secure a suitable candidate before the OFC World Cup Qualifiers in October.

As the team prepares for the OFC Nations Cup 2024, the nation looks forward to rallying behind Moli and his squad, anticipating a competitive and spirited performance on the international stage.