From primary school to the Golden Ball: Nabetari Itiata reflects on Kiribati’s historic IDC triumph

At just 21 years old, Nabetari Itiata Ioera has become one of the leading figures in Kiribati’s historic triumph at the 2026 FMF Inter-District Championship in Fiji. The forward scored four goals during the competition, including twice in the 6-1 victory over Seaqaqa in the Premier Division final, and received the Golden Ball as the tournament’s best player. Speaking exclusively to Oceania Football Center, Itiata reflected on his football journey, the emotions he experienced during the final and what comes next in his career.

For Itiata, football has been part of his life since childhood. His involvement in the sport began during primary school, long before he had the opportunity to represent his country in one of Fiji’s most traditional football competitions. “I started playing football when I was in primary school. I found that football was a good game for me, and from that time I continued playing,” he explained. “My experience in football has been enjoyable and interesting. I have learned a lot and enjoyed being part of the game.”

His appearance at the IDC stands among the most memorable experiences of his career. “One of the most memorable experiences was joining a football competition in Fiji. It was a special moment for me, and I really enjoyed the opportunity to play football there,” Itiata told OFCe.

Kiribati’s campaign in Suva began with a 4-2 defeat against Seaqaqa, but the team responded by defeating Nadroga 6-0, securing its first recorded victory at senior national-team level, although against a Fijian district side rather than another national team. Itiata contributed a goal in that match before scoring again in the 3-1 semi-final victory over Fiji’s Under-17 national team. His performances helped Kiribati reach the final on their first appearance at the IDC, an achievement made even more significant by the limited opportunities available to the national team in international football.

The final provided Itiata with the defining moments of his tournament. He opened the scoring in the 26th minute before Apenisa Dulukobau equalised for Seaqaqa four minutes later. With the match still level in the second half, the opposition were reduced to ten players following Dulukobau’s dismissal in the 59th minute. Just three minutes later, Itiata restored Kiribati’s advantage, beginning a remarkable period in which his team scored five unanswered goals to claim the Premier Division championship.

Beyond the goals, the match produced a deeply personal moment for the young attacker. Asked about becoming emotional on the pitch after scoring in the final, Itiata admitted that he struggled to explain what he had experienced. “I don’t know, but it was the first time I had felt that way,” he said.

His contribution throughout the tournament was recognised with the Golden Ball, completing an exceptional campaign in which he finished as Kiribati’s second-highest scorer behind Bauro Martin Jr. Asked about receiving the award, Itiata responded simply: “I’m happy to win that award.” Kiribati also collected the Golden Boot through Martin Jr and the Golden Glove through goalkeeper Toom Kiteon, completing a clean sweep of the Premier Division’s three major individual honours.

The achievement carries additional significance considering the conditions faced by footballers in Kiribati. The country lacks grass football pitches, while its status outside FIFA and limited international competition opportunities have historically restricted the development and exposure of its players. The invitation to compete at the IDC therefore provided an important opportunity for Itiata and his teammates to test themselves against opposition from Fiji.

Following the team’s return to Kiribati, Itiata described the welcome home positively and confirmed that he was continuing his football activities with his club. “We are training at our club,” he said when asked about his plans after the tournament. Although the possibility of attracting interest from teams outside Kiribati was raised during the interview, the forward did not confirm any specific offer or potential transfer.

For now, the 21-year-old returns to his regular football activities in KIFF Pro League, an individual award and four goals from a tournament that brought unprecedented success to Kiribati. What began as an interest in football during primary school has already taken Itiata to an experience he considers among the most memorable of his life, with his performances in Fiji providing a new reference point for the next stage of his career.

Tongan star Ata Inia scores twice in Thailand following the loss of his father

Melbourne-born Tongan winger Ata Inia scored twice for Kasetsart FC in their 3–1 victory over Mahasarakham United in Thailand’s second division on Wednesday, 14 October, just days after returning to action following the death of his father. The 26-year-old had travelled to his hometown of Melbourne earlier this month to attend his father’s funeral, making his decisive performance an especially personal moment.

Inia opened the scoring in the 39th minute, giving Kasetsart a half-time advantage before Mahasarakham equalised through C. Samphaodi shortly after the restart. Rungrath Poomchantuek restored the home side’s lead in the 65th minute, and Inia struck again in the 87th to secure the three points. His goals helped Kasetsart claim their first league victory of the season, having collected just one point from their previous five matches.

The forward had informed Oceania Football Center on 3 October that he was in Melbourne following his father’s passing. He subsequently shared an emotional tribute on Instagram, remembering his father as someone who had taught him valuable lessons about life and expressing gratitude to those who supported his family during the difficult period. Inia was back in Kasetsart’s starting lineup against Chiangmai United on 10 October, four days before his two-goal performance.

Following the victory, Inia shared another tribute on social media, featuring a picture of his father above an image of himself pointing towards the sky during a football celebration. “Best seats in the house now Dad,” he wrote, accompanied by a heart.

Born in Australia to a family of Tongan heritage, Inia has spent much of his professional career in Southeast Asia, representing clubs in Cambodia and Thailand. He has maintained his commitment to representing Tonga internationally and has previously been involved with the Tonga Football Association, although his senior international debut remains outstanding. Passport complications prevented him from featuring in the 2024 OFC Men’s Nations Cup qualifiers.

While his international ambitions remain unfinished, Inia’s latest contribution in Thailand came at a particularly difficult moment in his personal life, helping his club secure an important victory while paying tribute to his late father.

Bayliss scores stunning long-range goal and brace as Auckland FC defeat Melbourne City in A-League opener

Auckland FC opened their 2026/27 A-League Men campaign with a 3-1 victory over Melbourne City at Go Media Stadium on Saturday, with New Zealand international Lachlan Bayliss scoring twice on his league debut for the Black Knights. The 23-year-old midfielder produced a spectacular long-range goal to open the scoring before restoring Auckland’s advantage in the second half, while Lachlan Brook added a late third to secure a winning start for new head coach Pedro Moreira.

The opening goal arrived in the 35th minute following a costly mistake by Melbourne City’s defence. A misplaced backward pass presented Bayliss with an unexpected opportunity, and the midfielder reacted quickly after noticing goalkeeper Macklin Freke positioned well away from his goal. From long range, Bayliss launched an audacious lob over the stranded goalkeeper, sending the ball into the net and producing one of the standout moments of the opening weekend. It was a remarkable way for the former Newcastle Jets player to announce himself to the Auckland supporters.

Melbourne City responded seven minutes later through Quinn MacNicol. The visitors found their way back into the contest when Kavian Rahmani supplied the final pass for the midfielder, who converted in the 42nd minute to bring the score level at 1-1. The equaliser rewarded a Melbourne side that had enjoyed a greater share of possession, with both teams heading into the interval having scored once.

However, Auckland needed only eight minutes after the restart to regain the lead. Bayliss was again at the centre of the action in the 53rd minute, taking advantage of an opening in City’s defence to beat Freke for the second time. His second goal completed a memorable brace and restored the home side’s control of the scoreline, leaving Melbourne City facing another difficult task despite their greater share of the ball.

The visitors continued searching for an equaliser, with coach Aurelio Vidmar introducing Max Caputo and Mathew Leckie during the second half to strengthen his attacking options. City finished the match with 56% possession and 14 attempts compared to Auckland’s 10, but the Black Knights made far better use of their opportunities. Goalkeeper Michael Woud also played his part in keeping the visitors from finding another goal.

Auckland eventually settled the contest in the 85th minute when Brook added a third goal, finishing a move assisted by Francis de Vries. The late strike ended Melbourne City’s hopes of rescuing a point and completed an efficient attacking performance from the reigning champions, who scored with all three of their shots on target.

Bayliss emerged as the principal figure of the afternoon. Having joined Auckland from Newcastle Jets during the offseason, the New Zealand international arrived with growing experience in Australian football and appearances for the All Whites, including involvement in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. His outstanding first league appearance for the Black Knights offered an early indication of his importance to a team looking to defend its championship title.

The result also marked an encouraging beginning for Moreira, who replaced Steve Corica following Auckland’s historic championship-winning season. The Portuguese coach inherited a squad that had undergone significant changes during the transfer window, but the opening victory suggested that the Black Knights remain capable of competing at the highest level of the A-League.

Auckland will now turn their attention to an away match against Western Sydney Wanderers on October 24, while Melbourne City will look to recover when they face Melbourne Victory in the Melbourne Derby on the same day.

Fiji football mourns the loss of Nemani Rasiga, the captain who led Labasa to historic triumph over Ba

Former Labasa FC captain Nemani Rasiga, who helped the Babasiga Lions end Ba’s long-standing dominance in Fiji’s Champion versus Champion competition in 2008, has passed away after his body was discovered in the Labasa River on Friday, 16 October.

According to FijiVillage, Rasiga’s body was recovered from the river at approximately 10:40am. Police have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death, with a post-mortem examination expected to determine the cause.

Rasiga was a familiar figure in Fiji football, particularly during his years representing Labasa. One of the most memorable moments of his career came in April 2008, when he captained the Babasiga Lions to a 2-1 victory over Ba in the second leg of the Champion versus Champion final, securing a 3-1 aggregate triumph and ending their opponents’ 14-year dominance of the competition.

Speaking after that historic achievement, Rasiga told OFC Media: “Today we have proved to Ba that they are not the only champions of Fiji soccer.”

He continued representing Labasa in subsequent seasons, sharing the field with players including Roy Krishna, Henry Dyer and Taniela Waqa. His contributions included a goal in a 4-1 victory over Nadi during the 2008 Super Six competition.

Beyond his playing career, Rasiga remained involved in the local football community, helping to coach young players. His stepfather, Aisea Kaliseiwaqa, told Fiji Sun that he was a humble, respectful and family-oriented man who was valued by the Labasa community.

Tributes have begun appearing among Babasiga Lions supporters, remembering Rasiga’s contribution to one of Fiji’s most passionately supported football teams.

Oceania Football Center extends its condolences to Nemani Rasiga’s family, friends and the Labasa football community.

Jayroll Patty targets Solomon Kings starting role after breakthrough year with Solomon Islands

Solomon Islands youngster Jayroll Patty Eremae is determined to earn a place in the Solomon Kings FC starting lineup for the 2027 OFC Pro League season, following a year that has seen him captain his country at youth level and score his first senior international goal.

Speaking exclusively to Oceania Football Center, the 19-year-old midfielder reflected on his development during 2026, including his participation in the OFC U-19 Championship and the MSG Prime Ministers’ Cup, while outlining his ambitions for the next stage of his career.

Patty captained the Solomon Islands U-19 national team during the continental championship, where the hosts narrowly missed out on qualification for the FIFA U-20 World Cup. Leading the team brought additional responsibilities, particularly when working with players who had different levels of international experience.

“To lead the boys is not easy because everyone was new, but I managed to lead the boys and that was a great experience,” he told OFCe.

His progress continued at senior international level during the MSG Prime Ministers’ Cup, where he scored his first goal for the Solomon Islands national team. The achievement has strengthened his determination to become a more regular goalscorer.

“The MSG Cup was a great experience for me as a player, and scoring my first senior goal makes me hungry for more goals in upcoming games,” Patty said.

At domestic level, Patty has also been representing Green Shield in the Solomon Islands S-League. He described the experience positively, particularly because it allowed him to face players who are also his teammates at Solomon Kings FC.

However, his biggest ambition is to make an impact when the professional competition returns in 2027. Rather than simply being part of the Solomon Kings squad, Patty wants to compete for a regular starting position.

“In the S-League, I will score more goals, and in the Pro League, I will make sure I start in the first eleven and perform at my best,” he said.

The youngster believes that additional preparation and commitment during preseason will be essential to achieving that objective.

“I will work harder than ever in the preseason and show myself in training. I believe that I deserve to start,” Patty added.

For Patty, the ambition extends beyond club football. Having already represented the Solomon Islands at youth and senior levels, he hopes to develop into an established professional capable of representing his country with pride and inspiring other young footballers.

His immediate challenge will be translating that determination into performances that can earn him a regular place in Solomon Kings’ lineup when the OFC Pro League returns.

Solomon Kings retain Lofthouse and Higashide as Australian defender Krayem joins for 2027

Solomon Kings FC have completed their latest round of squad announcements ahead of the 2027 OFC Pro League season, confirming the return of attacking midfielder Jez Lofthouse and Japanese player Sota Higashide alongside the arrival of Australian defender Jacob Krayem.

Lofthouse, who wore the number 10 shirt during the club’s inaugural campaign, has committed to another season after establishing himself as an important creative presence in the Solomon Kings midfield. The attacking midfielder was among the competition’s leading players in several attacking metrics, ranking second for successful dribbles and fourth for key passes, according to figures previously published by the OFC Pro League.

The club also confirmed that Higashide will continue wearing number 27. The Japanese player became a familiar figure among Solomon Kings supporters during the first season and will remain part of the squad as the team prepares for its second campaign.

The only newcomer among the three announcements is Jacob Krayem, an Australian centre-back who arrives after representing South Island United in New Zealand during the 2026 season.

Before moving to New Zealand, Krayem spent eight seasons with Wynnum Wolves FC in Australia, making more than 130 senior league appearances and serving as club captain. His earlier football development included spells with Saint Eagles Souths and North Queensland Fury.

Krayem will wear the number 24 shirt and brings experience from two different football environments to a Solomon Kings defensive unit preparing for another season of regional competition.

The announcements also underline the club’s emphasis on continuity. By retaining Lofthouse and Higashide, Solomon Kings preserve two familiar members of their inaugural squad while strengthening their defensive options through Krayem’s arrival.

Solomon Kings described the announcements as the conclusion of their squad presentation process for the upcoming campaign, signalling that the club’s preparations for the 2027 OFC Pro League are entering another stage.

Solomon Kings, Bula or Hekari? The OFC Pro League question surrounding John Orobulu

Solomon Islands international John Orobulu has once again become one of the most discussed names among supporters as clubs continue assembling their squads for the 2027 OFC Pro League. After an outstanding return to Fijian football with Ba, the prolific striker is attracting renewed attention from fans eager to see him back in Oceania’s professional competition. But where could his next destination be?

Solomon Kings supporters have been particularly vocal, with many questioning when the club will announce the striker’s arrival. Others may wonder whether his successful spell in Fiji could open the door to Bula FC, while a return to PNG Hekari, where he spent the inaugural professional season, represents another possible chapter in his career.

For now, however, there is an important distinction between the speculation surrounding his future and the information that has actually been confirmed. Neither Solomon Kings, Bula FC nor PNG Hekari have publicly announced a move for Orobulu, and there is no verified indication that negotiations with any of the three clubs are underway.

What cannot be disputed is his remarkable scoring record in Fiji.

The 26-year-old forward finished the 2025 Fiji Premier League as the competition’s leading goalscorer, netting 19 times in 18 appearances for Rewa and helping the Delta Tigers secure the national championship. He also claimed the Golden Boot at the Inter-District Championship, scoring seven goals as Rewa won the tournament.

His performances earned him an opportunity with PNG Hekari in the inaugural OFC Pro League, but the move did not produce the results many expected.

Orobulu struggled to replicate his scoring form in the professional competition, where Hekari endured a difficult campaign. Speaking exclusively to Oceania Football Center in September, the striker explained that one of his main difficulties was being deployed outside his preferred position.

“I only play forward, not right midfielder or left midfielder, so I try my best to get to score, but it’s hard for me to score,” he told OFCe.

His assessment highlighted an important difference between the role he performed at Hekari and the one that had made him successful in Fiji. Rather than operating primarily as a central striker, Orobulu found himself playing in wider positions, limiting his opportunities to influence matches inside the penalty area.

The contrast became evident after he returned to Fiji during the June transfer window.

Joining Ba alongside fellow Pacific internationals David Supa and John Alick, Orobulu quickly rediscovered his goalscoring form. Despite arriving midway through the domestic season, he scored seven Premier League goals, including a hat-trick in the decisive 6-0 victory over Tailevu Naitasiri that secured Ba’s record 22nd national championship.

His influence extended into the country’s major cup competitions. He scored four times against Nasinu during Ba’s successful Fiji FACT campaign, added the winner against Nadi in the Battle of the Giants and contributed four goals during the Inter-District Championship, including a brace against Nadi and the opening goal in the semi-final against Labasa.

In total, Orobulu scored 16 goals across Fiji’s four major domestic competitions in 2026, helping Ba complete a historic clean sweep of the Fiji FACT, Premier League, Battle of the Giants and IDC titles.

It was a remarkable response to a difficult first experience in professional football, and one that has inevitably reopened discussions about his next move.

For many Solomon Islands supporters, the most appealing destination would be Solomon Kings FC.

The country’s professional representatives have already confirmed 14 contract renewals and begun introducing new players for the 2027 campaign. With Ben Cahn remaining as head coach, the club is seeking to build upon the foundations established during its inaugural season.

A player with Orobulu’s record in front of goal would naturally attract attention from supporters hoping to see more Solomon Islands internationals representing their country’s professional club.

The connection becomes particularly interesting because Cahn also coaches the Solomon Islands national team, from which Orobulu was omitted for the recent MSG Prime Minister’s Cup.

His absence generated considerable debate among supporters, particularly given his impressive performances for Ba. However, Orobulu responded without publicly challenging the national-team selection.

“I respect the coach’s decision, and I’m just focusing on training and getting better. Hopefully, I’ll get another opportunity in the future,” he told OFCe in September.

Cahn subsequently addressed the striker’s situation during an exclusive interview with Oceania Football Center, confirming that Orobulu remains under consideration for a national-team return.

“John is on the radar. I watched him closely in the Pro League for Hekari. It’s not my place to comment on past issues,” the coach explained.

Cahn also made clear that Orobulu’s prospects would depend on demonstrating his abilities consistently at the professional level.

“If he can continue the form he’s had in Fiji and produce those numbers consistently in the Pro League, he has every chance of being involved moving forward.”

Those comments are significant for Orobulu’s international ambitions, although they should not be interpreted as evidence of interest from Solomon Kings. Cahn has repeatedly emphasised that national-team selection and club recruitment are separate matters, and that players competing outside the Kings remain under consideration for the Bonitos.

Another potential destination is Bula FC.

Orobulu has already established himself as one of the most successful Solomon Islands forwards in Fijian domestic football. Having represented Rewa and Ba in consecutive championship-winning seasons, he is familiar with the country’s football environment and has developed strong connections within the local game.

Bula FC have begun rebuilding their squad for 2027, recently announcing the renewals of Fiji internationals Sterling Vasconcellos and Scott Wara. The club enjoyed an encouraging inaugural OFC Pro League campaign, finishing third in the regular season before falling short of the semi-finals.

For a team looking to strengthen its attacking options, Orobulu’s goalscoring record could make him an interesting candidate. However, his presence in Fiji does not automatically make Bula his next destination. The professional club operates separately from the domestic district teams, and there has been no public confirmation of interest in the striker.

A return to PNG Hekari cannot be entirely dismissed either.

The Papua New Guinean representatives have also started confirming players for next season, including the renewals of midfielders Ritzoki Tamgol and Judahbill Asar. The club is looking to improve upon a disappointing inaugural campaign under new head coach Matt Badiee.

Orobulu already understands Hekari’s environment and the demands of the competition, but his previous experience raises an important question: would a second spell allow him to operate in the central attacking position where he has consistently been most effective?

His own comments suggest that playing in his natural role would be particularly important if he is to reproduce his domestic goalscoring form at the professional level.

There is also the possibility that Orobulu could remain with Ba, where he has enjoyed considerable success and become an important member of one of the strongest squads in Fijian football.

His performances in 2026 have provided further evidence of his ability as a goalscorer, but the next step in his career will depend on opportunities, sporting considerations and the decisions made by the clubs preparing for the new professional season.

The growing expectation among supporters is understandable. Orobulu has already demonstrated that he can score consistently in Fiji and has an impressive international record, having finished the 2023 Pacific Games as the tournament’s leading goalscorer with eight goals.

What remains unanswered is whether another OFC Pro League club will offer him the opportunity to translate that success into professional football.

For Solomon Kings supporters, the hope is that the country’s most prolific recent domestic goalscorers could eventually lead the attack in Honiara. For Bula FC and Hekari, Orobulu’s experience and proven ability in front of goal may also make him an interesting option.

But until a club makes an official announcement, his future remains open.

After a difficult first professional season and an extraordinary response in Fiji, John Orobulu has given himself another opportunity to be part of the conversation.

The question now is whether that opportunity will take him back to Hekari, keep him in Fiji, bring him home to Solomon Kings — or lead somewhere else entirely.

New Caledonia’s Jaushua Sotirio joins Avondale as NPL Victoria champions strengthen attack ahead of Australian Championship

New Caledonian forward Jaushua Sotirio has joined Avondale FC ahead of the 2026 Australian Championship, returning to Australian football after a spell in Singapore with Hougang United. The experienced attacker is among nine new players recruited by the reigning NPL Victoria champions as they prepare to compete for another national trophy.

Sotirio, who turned 31 on 11 October, brings more than a decade of professional experience to the Melbourne-based club. Having previously represented Western Sydney Wanderers, Wellington Phoenix, Newcastle Jets and Sydney FC in the A-League, he arrives at Avondale as one of the club’s most experienced attacking additions.

His latest move follows a productive period with Hougang United in the Singapore Premier League, where he scored five goals in 14 appearances during the 2025/26 campaign. The Australian Championship will provide another opportunity for the forward to build on his return to regular competitive football after several challenging years in his career.

Born in Sydney to New Caledonian parents, Sotirio initially represented Australia at youth international level, playing for the Young Socceroos and the country’s U-23 team. However, his international career took a new direction in March 2025, when FIFA approved his change of sporting nationality to New Caledonia.

He was subsequently included in Johann Sidaner’s squad for the decisive stages of Oceania’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. The Cagous defeated Tahiti 3-0 in the semi-finals before losing by the same scoreline to New Zealand in the final. Although Sotirio remained an unused substitute in both matches, his inclusion marked an important connection with the country of his family’s origins.

The forward’s professional journey began with Western Sydney Wanderers in 2013, when he made his A-League debut as a teenager. He spent six seasons with the club before moving to Wellington Phoenix in 2019, where he became a familiar figure in New Zealand football.

His time at Wellington was followed by a season with Newcastle Jets before he signed for Indian Super League side Kerala Blasters in 2023. However, a serious Achilles injury disrupted his move to India and prevented him from making a competitive league appearance for the club.

Sotirio eventually returned to Australia with Sydney FC in January 2025, making two A-League appearances before continuing his career in Singapore.

At Avondale, he joins a club looking to capitalise on its recent domestic success. The Victorian side claimed the 2026 NPL Victoria championship after defeating Oakleigh Cannons 4-3 on penalties following a goalless Grand Final, securing another major achievement in the club’s history.

Avondale have responded by making several significant additions ahead of the Australian Championship. Alongside Sotirio, the club has recruited former A-League players Panayioti Armenakas and Harry van der Saag, as well as Ryan Feutz, Niyah Joseph and several other players with experience across Australia’s National Premier Leagues.

The tournament will bring together 16 clubs divided into four groups, with Avondale drawn alongside Adelaide City, Wests APIA and Broadmeadow Magic in Group B. Their campaign begins away against Adelaide City before they return to Avenger Park for their first home match against Broadmeadow Magic.

For Sotirio, the move represents another chapter in a career that has taken him from Australia to New Zealand, India and Singapore. His pace, versatility and experience across several professional environments could provide valuable options as Avondale attempt to translate their Victorian success into national silverware.

The signing also gives New Caledonian football another connection to the Australian domestic game, with Sotirio continuing his club career in a country where he first established himself as a professional while remaining eligible to represent the Cagous internationally.

Bula FC begin 2027 squad rebuild by retaining Fiji internationals Sterling Vasconcellos and Scott Wara

Bula FC have begun confirming their squad for the 2027 OFC Pro League season, announcing the contract renewals of Fiji international defenders Sterling Vasconcellos and Scott Wara. The two players become the first members of the club’s inaugural professional squad to officially extend their stays, providing important continuity as the Fijian representatives prepare for their second campaign in Oceania’s professional football competition.

Vasconcellos, 21, was the first player to be confirmed, with the club announcing his renewal on Thursday, 15 October. The defender from Saweni, Lautoka, signed his first professional contract ahead of the 2026 campaign and has since established himself as one of Fiji’s promising young players.

His first season with Bula FC provided valuable experience against professional opposition from Australia, New Zealand and across the Pacific. Vasconcellos also registered two assists during the inaugural OFC Pro League campaign, demonstrating his ability to contribute offensively from defence.

“I’m really excited to extend my contract with Bula FC and to be back for the 2027 season. Last season was my first experience as a professional player, so there was a lot for me to learn,” Vasconcellos said in the club’s announcement.

“I’ve taken a lot from that first season, and I know there is still plenty of room for me to improve. I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue with the club, and I’m looking forward to getting back into training, being back with the boys and getting into action again soon.”

The young defender has also enjoyed an encouraging period with Fiji’s national team. Earlier this month, he was part of the squad that won the 2026 MSG Prime Minister’s Cup in Suva, ending the country’s 26-year wait for another Melanesian title.

Vasconcellos contributed a goal in Fiji’s 2-0 victory over Papua New Guinea during the tournament’s group stage, while his defensive involvement helped the Bula Boys progress to the final, where they defeated Vanuatu 1-0.

His development has continued through the OFC Player Placement Programme, which has allowed him to train with Auckland FC in New Zealand alongside fellow Fiji internationals Maikah Dau and Ryan Naresh. The three players have been accompanied by Bula FC assistant coach Marika Rodu as they experience the training environment of an A-League club.

For Vasconcellos, representing a professional club from his own country remains a source of particular pride.

“Being from Lautoka, it means a lot to represent a Fijian professional club. I’m excited about what we can achieve together in 2027,” he added.

The second renewal followed on Friday, 16 October, with Bula FC confirming the return of experienced defender Scott Wara.

The 27-year-old was an important member of the club’s defensive unit during the inaugural OFC Pro League season, helping Bula finish third in the regular-season standings with 21 points from 14 matches.

Following that campaign, Wara moved to Australia, joining Maitland FC in the National Premier Leagues Northern NSW competition. His spell included a notable appearance in the Australia Cup Round of 32 against Fremantle City, when he scored a powerful header to give Maitland the lead before the Western Australian visitors recovered to win 2-1.

Wara also helped Maitland reach the Northern NSW NPL Grand Final, gaining additional competitive experience before returning to Fiji, where he joined Rewa for the Inter-District Championship.

“Australia was a good experience. I wanted to stay on this side of the world, and luckily an opportunity in Australia came up for me. I was able to do well there, and we even won the State Cup. Unfortunately, we lost the Grand Final, but it was a good experience nonetheless,” Wara explained.

Like Vasconcellos, Wara was part of Fiji’s successful MSG Prime Minister’s Cup squad. The defender played a decisive role in the 2-1 comeback victory over New Caledonia, scoring the equaliser in the 50th minute before Maikah Dau secured the win. That result confirmed Fiji’s qualification for the championship final against Vanuatu.

His return to Bula FC provides head coach Stéphane Auvray with a familiar defensive option ahead of another demanding professional season.

Wara expressed confidence in the club’s long-term development and his desire to help Bula challenge for the title.

“I’ve enjoyed being home. I truly believe that this project will grow even more, and I wanted to be part of it. Last season we finished in third place, which was amazing. I just want to build further on that, and hopefully we win it this year.”

The two renewals represent the beginning of an important recruitment period for the Fijian club.

Bula FC exceeded many expectations during the inaugural OFC Pro League, securing six victories in the regular season and defeating eventual champions Auckland FC 2-1 in Ba. The team qualified for the Leaders Group but ultimately missed out on the semi-finals after suffering a 2-1 extra-time defeat against Vanuatu United in the playoff.

With Auvray continuing to oversee both Bula FC and Fiji’s national team, the experience gained by players such as Vasconcellos and Wara could prove valuable as the club attempts to build upon its first professional campaign.

The 2027 OFC Pro League is scheduled to begin on 22 January, with another season of competition involving clubs from across Oceania. Bula FC are expected to announce additional squad members in the coming weeks as preparations for the new campaign intensify.

PNG Hekari continue 2027 squad rebuild with Ritzoki Tamgol and Judahbill Asar renewals

PNG Hekari FC have confirmed the contract renewals of midfielders Ritzoki Tamgol and Judahbill Asar ahead of the 2027 OFC Pro League season, continuing the club’s efforts to retain experienced members of its inaugural professional squad. The announcements follow the earlier confirmation that goalkeeper and formJuer captain Dave Tomare will also remain with the Papua New Guinean side.

Tamgol, 23, was confirmed through the club’s official social media channels on 15 October. The midfielder represented Hekari during the inaugural OFC Pro League campaign and will have another opportunity to establish himself in Oceania’s professional competition.

The young midfielder has also gained experience with the Papua New Guinea national team, representing the Kapuls during their international fixtures in 2026. His continued involvement provides an opportunity to build upon the experience acquired during Hekari’s first professional season.

A day earlier, on 14 October, the club announced the renewal of Judahbill Asar, another midfielder who featured in the 2026 campaign. The 28-year-old has also represented Papua New Guinea internationally and brings additional experience to a squad undergoing considerable changes ahead of the new season.

Asar was part of the Hekari side that competed against some of Oceania’s strongest teams during the inaugural competition. His performances included involvement in the club’s encounters against Auckland FC, where he was among the players who attempted to create attacking opportunities despite the team’s difficulties against the eventual champions.

Both renewals represent further steps towards establishing continuity following a challenging first professional season.

PNG Hekari finished eighth in the 2026 OFC Pro League regular-season standings, collecting eight points from 14 matches. The team recorded only two victories, although both were notable achievements: a 3-1 success against Vanuatu United in February and a dramatic 2-1 victory over eventual finalists South Melbourne in April.

Despite those results, Hekari struggled to maintain consistent performances and were subsequently eliminated during the Challengers Group stage. Their final match ended in a 3-0 defeat against Solomon Kings, bringing a disappointing conclusion to the club’s first campaign.

The rebuilding process is taking place under new head coach Matt Badiee, who was appointed in August. The Iranian-born American coach faces the challenge of making Papua New Guinea’s professional representatives more competitive while developing a squad capable of performing consistently against clubs from Australia, New Zealand and the wider Pacific region.

The earlier renewal of Tomare, who served as Hekari’s inaugural captain, demonstrated the club’s intention to retain important figures from its first season. The goalkeeper appeared in 12 of the club’s 17 matches during the campaign and brings considerable domestic and international experience.

With Tamgol and Asar now also confirmed, Hekari are beginning to establish the foundations of their 2027 squad. The club has indicated that further announcements will follow as preparations continue for the second season of the OFC Pro League.

The new campaign is scheduled to begin on 22 January 2027, with a revised competition format that will see all eight participating clubs involved in the knockout stages. The season will conclude with the final at the National Stadium in Honiara on 6 June.

For Hekari, the objective will be to turn the lessons of a difficult inaugural season into improved performances. Retaining players already familiar with the demands of professional football provides an important starting point, although further recruitment will be necessary as Badiee continues shaping his squad for the challenges ahead.