“Not the Actual Coach”: Moli’s words reflect Solomon Islands’ OFC Nations Cup struggles

In a performance that has left fans and analysts alike scratching their heads, the Solomon Islands national football team bowed out of the OFC Nations Cup after disappointing defeats to Vanuatu (1-0) and New Zealand (3-0). The aftermath of this exit has put interim coach Jacob Moli in the spotlight, not for strategic brilliance, but for a series of controversial decisions and startling admissions.

Moli, currently the head coach of Central Coast in the Solomon Islands’ top-flight Telekom S-League, cited lack of preparation and his interim status as primary reasons for the team’s poor performance. Speaking to local media in Vanuatu, where the competition was held, Moli stated, “Actually, I’m not the coach, I’m the interim coach”, a comment that has since fueled widespread criticism and raised questions about his dedication to the role.

Initially, the Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) had chosen Eddie Marahare as the interim coach for the competition. However, Marahare, who is the brother of current SIFF president Donald Marahare, declined the position to avoid any perceptions of nepotism within the football community. This decision led to Moli stepping into the interim role, a position he later suggested he was not fully prepared for, admitting the team “didn’t prepare well” for the tournament.

Moli’s tenure was marred by contentious decisions, particularly his choice to bench John Orobulu and Gagame Feni in the crucial opener against Vanuatu. Both players are prominent figures in the local league, known for their goal-scoring prowess. Feni, who wasn’t given any playtime in the first match, and Orobulu, who saw less than 10 minutes on the pitch, were glaring omissions in a match that ended in a narrow defeat. This loss placed the Solomon Islands in a precarious position, needing a historic win against New Zealand to advance—a feat they have never achieved.

Against New Zealand, the team’s strategy appeared improved with Feni and Orobulu starting, yet the match quickly slipped out of reach with two goals conceded within the first ten minutes. Another puzzling choice was Moli’s decision to bench 20-year-old star striker Raphael Lea’i, a move he partially reversed by bringing Lea’i on during the first half. However, these adjustments were too little, too late to challenge the professional and well-prepared New Zealand squad.

Moli’s comments post-defeat only added to the perplexity of his coaching stint. He remarked, “They are professionals, we have to step up to their level,” a statement which, while true, seemed to underscore a defeatist attitude rather than a call to rally and improve. This perspective has not sat well with supporters who expected a more proactive and inspiring approach from the coach.

The Solomon Islands Football Federation is now undoubtedly on the lookout for a new head coach, likely from overseas, to bring a fresh perspective and stronger leadership to the team. Moli’s words and actions during the tournament have highlighted the need for a dedicated, full-time coach to steer the team towards better preparation and performance on the international stage.

In the wake of this disappointing campaign, the Solomon Islands must reassess their strategies and coaching appointments. The interim tenure of Jacob Moli has underscored significant issues that need addressing if the team is to compete effectively in future tournaments.