Tuvalu’s new era takes shape at Dutch press conference as World Cup veteran joins coaching staff

Tuvalu’s ambitious efforts to strengthen their national football team took another step forward on Wednesday, November 4, when newly appointed head coach Robert Maaskant was officially presented during a press conference at the Atik Stadium in Roosendaal, Netherlands. The event brought several important developments, including the appointment of former Netherlands World Cup defender Kew Jaliens as assistant coach and confirmation that Maaskant will undertake his new role without receiving a salary.

The 57-year-old Dutch coach, whose appointment was announced in October, has signed a one-year agreement with the Tuvalu Islands Football Association (TIFA). However, his decision to take charge of one of Oceania’s smallest national teams is motivated by considerably more than professional ambitions.

Speaking to Dutch journalists, Maaskant revealed that he will receive only travel and expense reimbursements from the association.

“A lot of people I know say: ‘He must be doing it for the money.’ But I’m not getting a penny, so that’s not really the case this time,” he explained.

Maaskant’s enthusiasm for the project stems partly from his interest in experiencing different football environments. Having previously coached clubs in the Netherlands, Poland and Belarus, he sees Tuvalu as an opportunity to combine football with a broader international experience.

The most significant sporting announcement during the presentation was the addition of Kew Jaliens to the technical staff.

The 48-year-old former defender earned ten senior international caps for the Netherlands between 2006 and 2007, including an appearance against Argentina during the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany.

Jaliens enjoyed a successful European career with clubs including Willem II, AZ Alkmaar and Wisła Kraków before moving to Australia, where he represented Newcastle Jets and Melbourne City in the A-League.

His appointment also reunites him with Maaskant, under whom he played at Wisła Kraków. The pair were part of the Polish club’s 2010/11 league championship campaign, establishing a professional relationship that will now continue in Oceania.

Jaliens joins a coaching structure that also includes Dutch assistant Thijs Matla, who works in youth development at VVV-Venlo, alongside Tuvaluan coaches Nabil Alefaio and Pasene Siale.

The combination of European coaching experience and local football knowledge is intended to help Tuvalu improve its competitive standards while developing opportunities for players and coaches.

Tuvalu Islands Football Association technical director Michiel van der Werf was among those involved in organising the presentation, having played a leading role in securing Maaskant’s appointment.

The association is preparing for a significant international programme in 2027, beginning with the Four Nations Cup scheduled for Auckland, New Zealand, in January.

The tournament is expected to provide Tuvalu with its first senior international matches since the 2023 Pacific Games in Solomon Islands.

For a national team that has struggled to obtain regular international fixtures, the opportunity represents an important step towards establishing greater continuity.

The press conference also brought attention to the participation of Tuvalu international Jason Alama, who is currently in the Netherlands for a two-week training opportunity with VVV-Venlo’s U-23 setup.

The 23-year-old defender, who has represented Western Springs in New Zealand, attended the presentation after meeting his new national team coach.

Speaking to Dutch outlet VoetbalPrimeur, Alama expressed confidence in Maaskant’s ability to connect with the players.

“He’s a talented coach with a lot of experience,” Alama said, describing the Dutchman as humorous and outspoken and predicting that his personality would be well received within the national team.

Alama’s presence also reflects Tuvalu’s increasing reliance on footballers with family connections to the country who have developed their careers overseas.

Born and raised in New Zealand to Tuvaluan parents, the defender has represented the national team despite never having visited the islands himself, illustrating the importance of the country’s international football community.

Beyond the immediate sporting objectives, Maaskant used the presentation to emphasise the wider significance of representing Tuvalu.

The Pacific nation faces severe challenges associated with climate change and rising sea levels, making international visibility particularly important.

The coach explained that his new position offers an opportunity to raise awareness of those issues through football.

“Football can help draw attention to this problem. I’m certainly no climate revolutionary, but I think it’s wonderful if we can help the world a little through football,” he said.

Maaskant also revealed that he had been invited to participate in a climate conference in Turkey, an unexpected responsibility arising from his involvement with the national team.

His ambitions even extend to the possibility of arranging a future friendly against Greenland, another territory facing environmental challenges, with climate awareness potentially forming part of the occasion. No such fixture has been confirmed.

Tuvalu’s long-term ambition remains to achieve full FIFA membership. The country is currently an associate member of the Oceania Football Confederation but is not affiliated with FIFA, limiting its opportunities to participate in official international competitions.

Previous Dutch coaches Foppe de Haan and Leen Looijen were involved in earlier efforts to develop Tuvaluan football, but the country has yet to secure the international recognition it seeks.

With Maaskant leading the national team, Jaliens joining the technical staff and new opportunities emerging for players such as Alama, TIFA is attempting to establish a more sustainable international programme.

The coming months will provide the first indication of whether those ambitions can translate into results on the pitch.

For Tuvalu, however, the project already represents something beyond the appointment of a new coach. It is another attempt to bring one of the world’s smallest football nations closer to the international stage while ensuring that its voice is heard beyond the Pacific.

Makira-Ulawa begin Solomon Cup title defence against Western Tomoko as full tournament schedule is revealed

Defending champions Makira-Ulawa will begin their 2026 Solomon Cup campaign against Western Tomoko on November 22, following the release of the tournament’s official match schedule. The competition will bring together ten provincial teams at Lawson Tama Stadium in Honiara, with the championship final scheduled for December 5.

The opening match will see Makira-Ulawa face Western Tomoko at 12.30pm, before Guadalcanal Hornets take on Honiara Warriors at 3.30pm in another important Group A encounter.

For Makira-Ulawa, the tournament represents an opportunity to defend the historic championship they secured in July 2025, when the Real Kakamora defeated Malaita Eagles 3-0 in the final to claim their first Solomon Cup title.

Their previous campaign was marked by determination and resilience, particularly during the semi-final against Guadalcanal, when Makira-Ulawa recovered from a two-goal deficit to win 4-2.

That victory established the foundations for their eventual triumph, and the defending champions now return with several familiar figures as they seek to retain the trophy.

The province has already confirmed four guest players for the tournament, including Jeffery Bule and Stanley Wairowo, both important members of last year’s successful campaign. They will be joined by Solomon Islands international Adrian Mara and experienced winger Chris Hatarau.

Their opening opponents, Western Tomoko, will provide the first test in a demanding group that also includes Guadalcanal Hornets, Honiara Warriors and Isabel Frigates.

The second Group A fixture on opening day could be equally significant.

Guadalcanal have assembled an experienced squad featuring John Orobulu, Paul Francis, Marlon Tahioa and Lent Abua as their four guest players. Their meeting with Honiara Warriors will offer an early indication of the team’s ambitions after finishing third in last year’s competition.

Guadalcanal will subsequently face Temotu’s fellow provincial competitors within the group, including a highly anticipated encounter with Makira-Ulawa on November 26.

Meanwhile, Group B will begin its campaign on November 23, when Malaita Eagles face Central Shields at 12.30pm before Temotu Arrows take on Lauru Kuvojo at 3.30pm.

Malaita enter the competition determined to recover from their defeat in last year’s final, having previously established themselves among the country’s strongest provincial teams.

Group B also features Renbel Ibis, completing a competitive five-team section alongside Malaita, Central Shields, Temotu and Lauru Kuvojo.

The group stage will follow a single round-robin format, with every team playing four matches. Two fixtures are scheduled on each matchday, beginning at 12.30pm and 3.30pm, with the preliminary phase concluding on December 1.

The top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals on Thursday, December 3.

The winners of Group A will face the runners-up from Group B in the opening semi-final, while Group B’s winners will meet the second-placed team from Group A in the other encounter.

The third-place play-off and championship final will take place on Saturday, December 5, bringing the two-week competition to its conclusion.

The tournament will also provide an important opportunity for players from provincial football competitions to compete alongside experienced SIFF Super League footballers and current or former national team representatives.

Under the regulations introduced for 2026, each provincial team can include four guest players in its squad, with all four permitted to feature simultaneously.

The arrangement has encouraged several provinces to recruit established footballers, contributing to expectations of a highly competitive tournament.

The Solomon Cup also carries additional significance following the establishment of the OFC Professional League, with Solomon Kings providing a new professional pathway for domestic footballers.

Strong performances during the provincial competition could attract the attention of coaches and scouts ahead of the 2027 season, particularly for players who have not yet secured opportunities in the professional environment.

The Solomon Islands Football Federation is also introducing paid admission as part of its efforts to increase revenue and make the national competition more financially sustainable.

For supporters, the release of the schedule brings the tournament another step closer, with several intriguing encounters already confirmed during the group stage.

Makira-Ulawa’s title defence, Malaita Eagles’ attempt to reclaim the trophy and Guadalcanal’s strengthened squad are among the main storylines heading into the opening matches.

With ten provincial teams competing for national honours, Lawson Tama Stadium will once again become the centre of Solomon Islands football when the Solomon Cup kicks off on November 22.

Vanuatu rewards women’s MSG Cup champions with VT200,000 each as men’s team also recognised

Vanuatu’s government has awarded financial incentives to members of its men’s and women’s national football teams following their successful campaigns at the 2026 MSG Prime Minister’s Cup in Fiji. Each player from the women’s championship-winning squad received VT200,000, while members of the men’s team were awarded VT150,000 each in recognition of their runners-up finish.

The payments were presented by Minister responsible for Sports Job Andy during a ceremony on Friday, November 6, according to VBTC News. The initiative recognises the achievements of both national teams, which reached their respective finals during the regional tournament held in Suva between September and October.

The women’s national team produced one of Vanuatu’s most significant recent football achievements by defeating defending champions Papua New Guinea in the final on October 3.

After Nenny Elipas gave PNG an early advantage, Leimata Simon equalised before halftime, with the match eventually finishing 1-1 after extra time. Vanuatu went on to win 5-4 in the penalty shootout, ending Papua New Guinea’s unbeaten run in the competition and securing the country’s first women’s MSG Prime Minister’s Cup title.

Goalkeeper Amelia Reddy played an important role in the victory, making a decisive save during the shootout before being recognised as the tournament’s best goalkeeper.

Her performances had already received individual recognition from Prime Minister Jotham Napat, who presented her with VT150,000 following the tournament. That earlier award was separate from the latest incentives distributed to the national teams.

Vanuatu also collected the Women’s Golden Ball award through Kelly Kaltack, while the team received recognition for fair play during the competition.

The men’s national team came close to completing a historic double for the country.

Having won the 2025 MSG Prime Minister’s Cup, Vanuatu entered the tournament as defending champions and finished top of the round-robin standings, earning another appearance in the final.

Their campaign included a 1-0 victory over hosts Fiji during the group stage, but the result was reversed when the teams met again in the championship decider.

Fiji midfielder Thomas Dunn scored in the tenth minute, giving the Bula Boys a 1-0 victory and ending Vanuatu’s hopes of successfully defending their title.

Despite the defeat, Vanuatu’s men finished as silver medallists, while Tony Kaltack shared the competition’s Golden Boot award with Solomon Islands forwards Raphael Lea’i and Javin Wae after all three scored three goals.

The government’s decision to recognise both teams financially follows the celebrations held in Port Vila after their return from Fiji, when players and officials were welcomed by supporters and government representatives.

The payments also come as Vanuatu prepares to host the 2027 MSG Prime Minister’s Cup, providing both national teams with an opportunity to build on their recent performances in front of their home supporters.

For the women’s team, the upcoming competition will offer a chance to defend their newly won regional title, while the men’s side will seek to reclaim the trophy they lost in Suva.

The financial incentives represent another recognition of Vanuatu’s strong showing in Melanesian football, with both national teams receiving government support following a tournament that delivered a historic championship and two appearances in the finals.

Eleven goals in two matches: Raphael Lea’i scores another double hat-trick as Central Coast take S-League lead

Raphael Lea’i is producing one of the most extraordinary goalscoring runs in Solomon Islands football. Just three days after scoring five times against KOSSA, the 23-year-old international delivered another remarkable performance on Wednesday, November 4, netting six goals as Central Coast FC demolished Ghupo Wantoks 8-1 at Lawson Tama Stadium in Honiara.

The result took the defending champions to the top of the SIFF Super League standings, level with Green Shield on 35 points but ahead on goal difference, with two games in hand. Yet the biggest story was once again Lea’i, whose astonishing return of eleven goals across two consecutive appearances has reinforced his reputation as one of the country’s most dangerous forwards.

Having already scored five times in Sunday’s 7-0 victory over KOSSA, Lea’i needed just 27 minutes against Ghupo to complete another hat-trick.

He opened the scoring in the 18th minute before doubling Central Coast’s advantage four minutes later. His third arrived in the 27th minute, putting the defending champions in complete control of the contest.

Ghupo briefly responded through Wilfred Mani in the 35th minute, but Central Coast maintained their attacking momentum. Bobby Leslie restored the three-goal cushion in the 40th minute before Lea’i struck again three minutes later, taking his personal tally to four before halftime.

The Solomon Islands international continued his extraordinary performance after the break, scoring in the 61st and 78th minutes to complete his second six-goal display of the 2026 domestic campaign.

Barrie Limoki added Central Coast’s eighth goal in second-half stoppage time, sealing another emphatic victory for Jacob Moli’s side.

The performance was particularly remarkable because Lea’i had already achieved a double hat-trick earlier this season, scoring six times in Central Coast’s 9-0 victory over SOSA FC on September 2.

Combined with his five goals against KOSSA and six against Ghupo, those three matches alone have produced an astonishing 17 goals for the former FK Velež Mostar forward.

His latest performances also represent a dramatic contrast with his experience during the inaugural OFC Professional League season, when he managed just one goal in fifteen appearances for Solomon Kings.

Back at Central Coast, however, Lea’i has rediscovered the devastating finishing ability that made him a standout talent during his teenage years with Henderson Eels.

His resurgence was already evident during the 2026 OFC Men’s Champions League in August, when he scored a memorable hat-trick against Galaxy FC in the semi-finals, including an extra-time winner that sent Central Coast into their first continental final in 17 years.

Now, his goals are proving equally important in the domestic championship.

Central Coast remain unbeaten after thirteen matches, recording eleven victories and two draws. The defending champions have scored 59 goals while conceding only eleven, giving them an impressive goal difference of +48.

Green Shield, who have collected the same 35 points from fifteen matches, now find themselves under considerable pressure as Central Coast possess two games in hand and a significantly stronger attacking record.

The club’s official social media account celebrated Lea’i’s achievement by describing the competition as “Rafa Lea’i’s League”, underlining the forward’s extraordinary influence on their recent performances.

For Central Coast, the combination of Lea’i, Limoki and Leslie has become a formidable attacking weapon, with the three players once again contributing all eight goals against Ghupo.

The challenge now is to maintain that momentum as the defending champions pursue another national title.

For Lea’i, the numbers speak for themselves. Eleven goals in two matches, two double hat-tricks during the season and another unforgettable performance in continental competition illustrate a remarkable return to his best form.

With the 2027 OFC Professional League season approaching and Lea’i expected to return to Solomon Kings, his goalscoring exploits provide an encouraging indication of the attacking quality he could bring back to the professional stage.

For now, however, the Solomon Islands star continues to dominate domestic football, and Central Coast are reaping the rewards.

Ba players share FJ$50,000 reward after historic four-title season

Ba FC’s remarkable 2026 campaign has brought financial rewards for the Men in Black, with players receiving a combined FJ$50,000 following their historic clean sweep of Fiji’s four major domestic competitions. The payments were announced during a celebration organised by the Ba Chamber of Commerce on Saturday, October 31, recognising a season that saw the club return to the summit of Fijian football.

The amount includes the full FJ$25,000 prize awarded for winning the FMF Inter-District Championship (IDC), supplemented by a matching FJ$25,000 bonus from major sponsor Dayals Steel. An additional FJ$10,000 was allocated to the team’s management, bringing the combined player and management rewards to FJ$60,000.

Ba completed an extraordinary domestic quadruple in 2026, winning the Extra Premier League, BiC Fiji FACT, Extra Battle of the Giants and FMF Inter-District Championship. Their success marked an impressive turnaround following a disappointing 2025 campaign, when the club lost the IDC final to Rewa in front of its home supporters at the newly reopened Govind Park.

The Men in Black began their collection of trophies by ending a 16-year Fiji FACT title drought, defeating Navua on penalties after a goalless final. They subsequently secured their first national league championship in seven years before adding the Battle of the Giants title with a 2-1 victory over Rewa in September.

The BOG triumph was particularly significant after Ba suffered a 3-0 defeat against the same opponents during the group stage. The team recovered to reach the final and reverse that result, securing their 18th title in the competition.

The fourth trophy arrived on October 11, when Ba defeated Navua 2-0 in the IDC final at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva. David Supa opened the scoring before Etonia Dogalau converted a penalty to complete the victory, following a foul on midfielder Nabil Begg.

The result sealed a rare achievement in Fijian football. Although Ba had previously won the league, Fiji FACT and BOG during the same season in 2006, their 2026 success came under the modern 90-minute tournament format and included the IDC championship.

Speaking during the celebration, Ba Football Association president Praneel Dayal acknowledged that the club’s transformation had required considerable work behind the scenes, particularly to address financial difficulties and rebuild the organisation.

Dayal recalled the disappointment of losing the 2025 IDC final and the commitment he subsequently made to restore the club’s competitive standing.

The association president explained that sponsorship negotiations, fundraising events and changes to the club’s technical and administrative structures had all contributed to the recovery.

“Ba Football must always come before any individual. No one is bigger than the badge,” Dayal said.

The Ba president also acknowledged the financial support provided by his elder brother, Jay Dayal, through Dayals Steel. According to Praneel Dayal, the company’s sponsorship contributions exceeded FJ$200,000 during the club’s rebuilding process.

He further stated that he had personally provided more than FJ$1 million in financial support to Ba Football Association since assuming the presidency, illustrating the scale of investment he said was required to restore the club’s operations.

Beyond the financial contributions, the players’ consistency throughout the season proved decisive. Ba demonstrated resilience in knockout competitions while maintaining the performances necessary to claim the national league championship.

Their achievements were also recognised internationally, with FIFA president Gianni Infantino sending a congratulatory message following their Extra Premier League triumph in September.

The celebrations extended beyond the official function, with supporters gathering in Ba to honour the team. A procession through the town brought together players, officials and members of the community, reflecting the significance of the achievement for one of Fiji’s most successful football districts.

For the players, the financial reward represents recognition of their contributions to a season that restored Ba’s domestic dominance. The FJ$50,000 payment also highlights the importance of commercial backing in Fiji’s football environment, where sponsorship and community fundraising remain essential to sustaining district teams.

With all four major domestic trophies secured, Ba have established a formidable benchmark for their rivals heading into 2027. Maintaining that standard will be the next challenge for a club that has transformed the disappointment of the previous year into one of the most successful campaigns in its history.

Brian Kaltak nearing training return after missing Perth Glory’s opening A-League matches

Vanuatu international defender Brian Kaltak could soon return to training with Perth Glory after missing the opening three matches of the 2026/27 A-League Men season due to a knee injury. The 32-year-old centre-back has been unavailable since the beginning of the campaign, but the latest update from head coach Adam Griffiths suggests that his recovery is progressing.

Kaltak was ruled out of Perth’s opening fixture against Macarthur FC on 17 October and subsequently missed the matches against Brisbane Roar and Adelaide United. His absence comes after an impressive first season with the Western Australian club, during which he established himself as one of the team’s most important defenders and received the 2025/26 Most Glorious Player Award, Perth Glory’s main individual honour.

Speaking ahead of the 1 November encounter with Adelaide United, Griffiths confirmed that Kaltak and fellow defender Trent Ostler were on track to resume training during the following week. The Vanuatu international’s anticipated return would provide Perth with an important defensive reinforcement as the club looks to build momentum in the early stages of the season.

Despite losing their opening two fixtures by identical 2-1 scorelines against Macarthur and Brisbane Roar, Perth recovered with an impressive 4-0 victory over Adelaide United at HBF Park. Goals from Jaiden Kucharski, Tadi Kuzamba, Stefan Colakovski and Matt Ellis secured the team’s first three points of the campaign, although Kaltak remained unavailable for selection.

The experienced defender joined Perth Glory from Central Coast Mariners in July 2025, having previously enjoyed considerable success with the Gosford-based club. During his time with the Mariners, Kaltak won two A-League Championships and played an important role in their historic 2024 treble, which included the AFC Cup title. His performances also earned him consecutive selections in the PFA A-League Team of the Season in 2023 and 2024.

Kaltak’s absence has also attracted attention among football followers in Vanuatu, where he remains one of the country’s most prominent players competing professionally overseas. His achievements in Australian football have made him an important reference for emerging Vanuatu footballers seeking opportunities at a higher level.

Perth Glory are scheduled to face Newcastle Jets on Saturday, 7 November, at HBF Park. Although Kaltak is expected to resume training around this period, the club has not yet confirmed when he will be available for competitive action. His recovery will remain an important development to follow as Perth prepare for their upcoming A-League fixtures.

Guadalcanal strengthen Solomon Cup ambitions as Marlon Tahioa joins star-studded squad

Guadalcanal have received another boost ahead of the 2026 Solomon Cup, with Solomon Islands international midfielder Marlon Tahioa joining the provincial team’s preparations on Tuesday, November 3. The 27-year-old brings considerable experience from Fiji football and the OFC Champions League, adding further quality to a squad that already features John Orobulu and Paul Francis.

Tahioa is the fourth guest player to join Guadalcanal’s preparations, completing a group that also includes Orobulu, Francis and Lent Abua. His arrival strengthens the midfield options available to head coach Franco Ne’e as the team prepares for the provincial competition, scheduled to begin on November 22 in Honiara.

Currently representing Central Coast FC in the SIFF Super League, Tahioa is among the most internationally experienced players in the Guadalcanal squad. He previously spent several seasons in Fiji, representing Suva, Nasinu and Labasa while studying at the University of the South Pacific.

His performances in Fiji eventually took him to the continental stage, where he became an important member of the Suva side that reached the 2023 OFC Champions League final in Vanuatu.

Tahioa scored three goals during that campaign, including the dramatic equaliser against Auckland City in the final at Freshwater Stadium. His strike brought Suva level at 2-2 late in the second half, forcing extra time before the New Zealand champions eventually secured a 4-2 victory.

After returning to Solomon Islands, Tahioa continued his career with Central Coast, representing the club in domestic and regional competitions. He also contributed to the team’s 2026 OFC Men’s Champions League campaign, scoring during the group stage as the Honiara-based club progressed to the final.

At international level, Tahioa has represented Solomon Islands in several competitions, including the 2023 Pacific Games and 2024 OFC Nations Cup. He also captained the national team during a friendly against Papua New Guinea in December 2024.

His experience could be particularly valuable alongside Paul Francis, another footballer familiar with the demands of Fiji’s domestic competitions. Francis represented Nasinu during the 2026 season before returning to Solomon Islands, where he captained Eastern Frigates to victory in the Guadalcanal Football Championship.

According to the Guadalcanal Manivos team management, the combination of Tahioa and Francis is expected to provide creativity and stability in midfield, supporting an attacking department that includes Orobulu, Terrison Weni and Junior Ovita.

Orobulu’s presence has already attracted considerable attention following his successful season with Ba FC, where he helped the Men in Black complete a domestic quadruple. His return to Solomon Islands provides Guadalcanal with a proven goalscorer who has experienced success in major Fijian competitions over the past two years.

The inclusion of several established players reflects Guadalcanal’s ambitions after finishing third in the 2025 Solomon Cup.

Tahioa’s connection with the provincial team also extends beyond football. According to team management, his wife comes from South Guadalcanal, strengthening his personal ties to the province.

The 26-man squad is expected to enter its official training camp on November 15, with preparations continuing ahead of a challenging group stage.

Guadalcanal have been drawn alongside defending champions Makira-Ulawa, Honiara Warriors, Western Tomoko and Isabel Frigates in Group A.

With experienced internationals joining established provincial players, Guadalcanal are assembling a squad capable of challenging for a place in the knockout stages and potentially improving on last year’s third-place finish.

For Tahioa, the tournament represents another opportunity to compete for silverware on home soil after establishing himself in both Fiji and Solomon Islands football.

“A no-brainer”: William Tønning explains why he chose Vanuatu United over staying in New Zealand

Danish goalkeeper William Tønning has revealed that the warmth of the people of Vanuatu played a decisive role in his decision to join Vanuatu United for the 2027 OFC Professional League season. Speaking exclusively to Oceania Football Center, the 27-year-old reflected on his experience in Port Vila, his emotional departure from Napier City Rovers and his ambitions to become one of the competition’s leading goalkeepers.

Tønning’s arrival at Vanuatu United followed a successful trial during September’s two-match series against Australian A-League club Central Coast Mariners. The goalkeeper started the historic 3-2 victory at Freshwater Stadium on September 9, when Vanuatu United became the first professional club to win a match between two fully professional teams on Vanuatu soil.

The Chiefs subsequently defeated the Mariners 1-0 in the second encounter, completing an impressive sweep against their Australian opponents. However, for Tønning, the experience extended far beyond the results on the pitch.

“I have been following the OFC Pro League since its inception, since I had a few mates who played in the league last year. Having the opportunity to come to Vanuatu and meet the people in and around the club made a big difference in my decision making,” he told OFCe.

“I was stunned by the beauty of Vanuatu and the kindness and openness of the locals. I am excited to be a part of what is being built at Vanuatu United and getting to experience the immense love and passion for football in Vanuatu.”

Despite having played in several European countries and spending two periods in New Zealand, Tønning admitted that his first experience in Vanuatu left a particularly strong impression.

He recalled being welcomed immediately by his new teammates and receiving similar hospitality from people he encountered during his time in Port Vila.

“I felt welcomed in the changing room from the first minute and had lots of good chats with locals in the streets and in shops. Vanuatu is a beautiful place and I look forward to exploring the country.”

The atmosphere at Freshwater Stadium also reinforced his enthusiasm for the project. With Vanuatu United preparing to host part of the 2027 OFC Pro League season, Tønning believes the opportunity to bring professional football directly to local supporters could become one of the club’s greatest strengths.

“Experiencing the passion for football in Vanuatu was a fantastic experience. The atmosphere for the games against CCM was great and it’s going to be exciting for the club and for the whole country to have a hub in Vanuatu and to pack out the stadium.”

Having experienced the club’s environment firsthand, the goalkeeper no longer had doubts about his next destination.

“After visiting the country and meeting the great people in and around the club it was a no brainer. It is going to be tough to leave Napier and a club I love very much, but I am very excited to start a new chapter in Vanuatu.”

The decision meant leaving Napier City Rovers shortly after helping the New Zealand club win the 2026 Central League championship, ending Wellington Olympic’s five-year dominance of the competition.

Tønning first joined Napier in 2024 and established himself as a reliable goalkeeper during a successful season that saw Rovers narrowly miss qualification for the National League Grand Final.

He subsequently returned to Europe, representing Swedish side Ängelholms FF and Icelandic club KA Akureyri in 2025 before joining Östersunds FK in early 2026.

His return to Napier for the 2026 campaign proved particularly successful. The goalkeeper helped Rovers secure their first Central League title since 2018, with the team finishing two points ahead of Wellington Olympic.

For Tønning, however, his connection with Napier is about much more than the silverware.

“This is my second stint in New Zealand and with NCR. I have very fond memories from here and I feel lucky to have been a part of what I consider the most special club in New Zealand,” he explained.

“We managed to win a league title this year, so I leave with a happy heart. I have met great people and made friends for life here and will always cherish my time here in New Zealand.”

His extensive career has taken him through Denmark, Sweden, the Faroe Islands, Iceland and New Zealand, providing an interesting perspective on the development of football in Oceania.

Having witnessed the evolution of New Zealand football across two separate periods, Tønning believes the country is moving in a positive direction, particularly with the emergence of additional professional opportunities.

“Football in New Zealand is definitely on the up. Football is huge among the youth here and having two A-League teams along with two OFC Pro League teams is opening pathways for aspiring footballers in New Zealand to strive for and look up to.”

Nevertheless, he acknowledged that the country still faces challenges in developing its facilities and closing the gap with more established football environments.

“Compared to top leagues in Europe there is still some way to go of course, but with more and more qualified coaches coming through and more professional opportunities opening up both for players and coaches, the potential is there.”

Now preparing for a different challenge in Vanuatu, Tønning joins a squad that reached the semi-finals of the inaugural OFC Professional League season and has undergone considerable reinforcement during the offseason.

Vanuatu United have recruited several prominent domestic footballers, including players who represented Galaxy FC during their successful 2026 OFC Men’s Champions League campaign.

The club will also begin the upcoming season under a new coaching structure involving former Auckland City coach Albert Riera and Vanuatu Football Federation technical director Emerson Alcântara.

Despite the expectations surrounding the Chiefs, Tønning is reluctant to establish specific collective objectives before beginning preparations with his new teammates.

“I don’t want to put any season objectives out there before preseason meetings and goal setting, but I want us to make the people of Vanuatu proud and play some good and entertaining football.”

His personal ambitions, however, are clear.

“On a personal note I want to be one of the top keepers in the league and will do my very best to contribute to the team’s success.”

Beyond his goalkeeping responsibilities, Tønning is also interested in contributing to the development of younger players in Vanuatu.

He believes the experience accumulated throughout his career could be particularly useful in a squad featuring several emerging national team players.

“I want to bring my character in the changing room and on the pitch and influence the training environment positively. I bring a decent amount of experience to the table and am looking forward to sharing some of my knowledge to the young lads in the squad and hopefully get a chance to coach some young aspiring ni-Vanuatu goalkeepers.”

That willingness to contribute beyond his own performances reflects his wider appreciation for the opportunities created by Oceania’s new professional competition.

For a goalkeeper familiar with the structures of European and New Zealand football, the geographical challenges and ambitions of the OFC Pro League make it a particularly interesting project.

“I think it’s a great initiative and one of the most fascinating leagues in the world when you factor in the distances between clubs and the hub format,” he said.

“It’s an ambitious league with a great goal of bringing Oceania together through football and giving nations a chance to have professional football where it was not previously viable. It gives young footballers around Oceania something to work for and suddenly makes the chance of making a living from football a real possibility.”

Vanuatu United will begin their 2027 campaign against Solomon Kings on January 22, while Vanuatu is scheduled to host OFC Pro League matches for the first time during the fifth circuit series.

The prospect of playing professional football in front of the same supporters who welcomed him during September’s friendlies is something Tønning is particularly looking forward to.

Off the pitch, he hopes to explore the country and experience more of its culture, including visiting different islands whenever his football commitments allow.

“I am lucky and privileged to get the chance to live in a place not many people from my side of the world get to experience, and I will not take that for granted.”

His final message to Vanuatu United supporters reflects the connection he has already developed with the country.

“Thank you for welcoming me with open arms when I visited your beautiful country. I am looking forward to giving my all for the club and for all of Vanuatu and will feel a great sense of pride wearing the Vanuatu United shirt. We have a great season ahead I’m sure. See you soon.”

For Tønning, the move represents another chapter in a career that has already crossed several borders. This time, however, the opportunity offers something different: a chance to contribute to the development of professional football in a country where the sport occupies a special place in everyday life.

Tonga name 26-man squad for New Zealand tour as Tu’ulalupe prepare for international return

Tonga Football have announced a 26-man squad for their November tour of New Zealand, marking another important step towards the Tu’ulalupe’s return to international competition after more than two years without a senior men’s international match.

The selection brings together players representing domestic clubs across Tonga and six footballers based in New Zealand, providing an opportunity to reconnect locally developed talent with members of the Tongan football community overseas.

Tonga’s last senior international appearance came in September 2024, when they suffered a 2-1 defeat against Samoa during the opening stage of Oceania’s qualification campaign for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

That result followed a 3-1 victory over Cook Islands four days earlier, with Tonga eliminated before reaching the group stage of the regional qualifiers.

Since then, the national team have remained largely absent from international competition, making the November tour an important opportunity to assess players, rebuild combinations and prepare for future tournaments.

The squad announced by Tonga Football includes representatives of several domestic clubs, with Veitongo FC, Lavengatonga FC, Longoteme FC, Longolongo FC, Lotoha’apai FC, Navutoka FC, Marist FC and Folaha FC all contributing players.

Among those selected are Semisi ‘Otukolo and Elias Kendler of Veitongo, Manase Talakai and Kulisitofa Kite of Lavengatonga, Fineasi Palei and ‘Amanaki Lau’i of Longoteme, and William Tukua and Christopher Fa’onuku of Navutoka.

The presence of several players from different domestic football environments provides Tonga with an opportunity to assemble a squad capable of building greater cohesion ahead of the next international cycle.

Another important feature of the selection is the inclusion of six players listed as New Zealand-based.

Anthony Likiliki, William Senitili, Topuluka Tu’amoheloa, Tomasi Armitage, Pau Likiliki and David Tu’amoheloa have all been named in the touring group, reflecting the importance of Tonga’s overseas football connections.

The involvement of players living in New Zealand could provide additional options for the Tu’ulalupe, particularly as the national team seeks to strengthen its player pool and maintain relationships with footballers of Tongan heritage abroad.

The tour also comes as Oceania’s international calendar begins moving towards the next qualifying cycle.

Tonga will be among the countries preparing for the 2027 OFC Men’s Nations Cup qualifying competition, an important opportunity to return to regular competitive football after an extended period without international fixtures.

For a national team that has traditionally faced difficulties obtaining frequent international matches, the New Zealand tour could provide valuable experience for domestic players and help establish a foundation for future selections.

The country’s most recent competitive victory against Cook Islands in September 2024 demonstrated Tonga’s ability to produce positive results, although their subsequent defeat to Samoa prevented further progression in the World Cup qualifying campaign.

The November tour will therefore represent more than a return to the pitch. It will also provide an opportunity for the national team to assess its current strengths, identify areas requiring improvement and prepare for the challenges awaiting Tonga in regional competition.

Tonga Football have confirmed the touring squad, although the opponents, venues and match schedule have not yet been established in the information available.

With the Tu’ulalupe preparing to return to international action, the coming weeks will offer an important indication of how Tonga intend to rebuild their senior men’s national team ahead of a new cycle of Oceania football.

#PlayerClub
1Semisi ‘OtukoloVeitongo FC
2Manase TalakaiLavengatonga FC
3Justin To’etu’uLongolongo FC
4Fineasi PaleiLongoteme FC
5Kulisitofa KiteLavengatonga FC
6Gershom MailangiLotoha’apai FC
7Viliami TukiaNavutoka FC
8Lisiate FekeLongolongo FC
9Elias KendlerVeitongo FC
10Tevita FalepapalangiLotoha’apai FC
11Sione TaufaLotoha’apai FC
12Hakeai FonuaLotoha’apai FC
13‘Amanaki Lau’iLongoteme FC
14Sosaia ‘IlanganaLongolongo FC
15Christopher FauonukuNavutoka FC
16Taani Fe’aoMarist FC
17Herick FunakiLongolongo FC
18Sione NaniseniNavutoka FC
19Sione ‘Ainu’uFolaha FC
20Visesio ToluFolaha FC
21Anthony LikilikiNew Zealand-based
22William SenituliNew Zealand-based
23Topuluka Tu’amoheloaNew Zealand-based
24Tomasi ArmitageNew Zealand-based
25Pau LikilikiNew Zealand-based
26David Tu’amoheloaNew Zealand-based

Architect of Fiji’s U-17 World Cup success Sunil Kumar leaves for Papua New Guinea

Fiji Football Association have confirmed the departure of Sunil Kumar, the country’s Head of Talent Development and national U-16 coach, who is moving to Papua New Guinea to take up a new opportunity involving Papua New Guinea football and Hekari FC ahead of the 2027 OFC Professional League season.

Kumar leaves after overseeing one of the most successful periods in Fiji’s youth football history, having guided the country to three consecutive FIFA U-17 World Cup qualifications. His departure represents a significant change within the national development structure, particularly as Fiji prepare for their second consecutive appearance at the global tournament in Qatar later this month.

The Fiji FA announced his departure on November 3, with chief executive Mohammed Yusuf acknowledging the coach’s contribution to the development of young footballers.

“Sunil has shown great commitment to identifying and developing our young players. We thank him for his service and wish him every success in this new chapter,” Yusuf said.

Kumar’s achievements have been closely associated with the emergence of a new generation of Fijian talent. Under his guidance, Fiji secured qualification for the 2025, 2026 and 2027 FIFA U-17 World Cups following three consecutive top-three finishes at the OFC U-16 Men’s Championship.

The breakthrough came in 2024, when Fiji earned their first-ever qualification for the FIFA U-17 World Cup during the continental tournament in Tahiti. The following year, the country made its debut on the global stage in Qatar, providing young players with international experience against opponents from outside Oceania.

Fiji subsequently qualified for the 2026 edition and secured another berth for 2027 during the OFC U-16 Men’s Championship in Papua New Guinea, maintaining a level of consistency previously unseen in the country’s youth football programme.

Among the players to develop under Kumar is Maikah Dau, who captained Fiji during the 2024 qualifying campaign before progressing to professional football with Bula FC and earning his first senior international appearances in 2026.

Dau’s progression reflects the pathway Kumar has sought to establish between youth internationals and senior football. The midfielder became the youngest player to feature in the inaugural OFC Professional League and subsequently contributed to Fiji’s MSG Prime Minister’s Cup triumph.

Kumar’s work has extended beyond coaching national teams. As Head of Talent Development, he has been involved in identifying emerging footballers through schools and district competitions, while also addressing the difficulties young internationals face in securing regular opportunities at senior club level.

In October, Kumar and Fiji FA Technical Director David Baltase raised concerns over the lack of competitive football available to youth internationals. Figures presented during a technical workshop revealed that only nine of 48 U-16 and U-17 internationals from the 2024–2026 period were playing regularly for senior district teams.

The findings highlighted a major challenge for Fiji football: ensuring that progress at international youth level translates into sustainable careers beyond the age-group competitions.

Originally from Ba, Kumar began his coaching journey while working as a schoolteacher. Having previously played youth football in his home district, he became involved with Ba’s youth teams before progressing through Fiji’s national coaching structure.

He has frequently credited former Fiji national team coach Yogendra Dutt as one of his most important influences, having learned from him during his early years in football.

His coaching philosophy places considerable emphasis on personal development, discipline and building strong relationships with players, particularly when working with teenagers competing internationally for the first time.

The move to Papua New Guinea offers Kumar an opportunity to take that experience into another developing football environment, where Hekari FC are preparing for their second season in the OFC Professional League.

The Port Moresby-based club have already appointed Iranian-born American coach Matt Badiee as head coach for the 2027 campaign, following a difficult inaugural season in which Hekari finished bottom of the standings.

Kumar’s precise responsibilities within Hekari and Papua New Guinea football have not yet been detailed in the Fiji FA announcement. Nevertheless, his background in youth development and player identification could prove valuable as the club looks to strengthen its domestic foundations and become more competitive at professional level.

For Fiji, his departure comes at a particularly important moment, with another U-17 World Cup approaching and the country’s younger generation increasingly benefiting from professional football opportunities.

Kumar leaves behind three consecutive World Cup qualifications and a development programme that has helped establish a new benchmark for Fiji’s youth national teams. His next challenge will take him to Papua New Guinea, where the professional game’s expansion is creating new opportunities for coaches and players across Oceania.