Raphael Lea’i strengthens Henderson Eels squad; Leon Kofana addition is a possibility

FIFA U17 World Cup is over for Solomon Islands and the players are already back to their homeland. Despite the age most of them are playing in Telekom S-League like Derick Taebo, Javin Wae, Barrie Limoki and Pateson Tongaka. There will be some more U17 players in the Telekom S-League second round because Henderson Eels will count on Raphael Lea’i and for the rest of the championship.

He is living in New Zealand after receiving a scholarship to study in Scots College but he is currently on a scholar break. Oncehe just came back from World Cup he is already in Solomon Islands and ready to debut for Henderson Eels.

When Eels head coach Eddie Marahare announced that Raphael Lea’i would play for Henderson Eels, he was criticized by local people but he came up to the media to clarify: “Raphael Lea’i kindly asked if he could join Eels during this break to engage in competitive soccer while waiting to return for his scholarship. His engagement is only for the second round of Telekom S-League. We respect his scholarship and would not stand in any way to stop other offers that he may have secured during the world cup to further his career.”

Marahare also talked to Oceania Football Center about the recent signing of his side: “He did not score in the World Cup, so I am sure he is eager to score goals in S-League to prove his quality” he said. Le’ai is one of the most promising islanders players. He was 2018 OFC U16 Championship’s MVP and Top Scorer helping Solomon Islands to qualify for 2019 U17 World Cup.

It is also being reported that Leon Kofana may join Lea’i and play for Henderson Eels in Telekom S-League’s second round but it is not confirmed yet. Oceania Football Center is investigating it to bring the most accurate information for you readers. Kofana is also in New Zealand studying at Scots College and he is the most important defensive player of Solomon Islands U17 National Team.

It is also important to mention that, in accordance to the FIFA regulations, Lea’i can not play in any overseas based football club until his 18th anniversary – so he is still stuck with only domestic league options while his school football does not resume.

Henderson Eels is currently in the second position in the league just one point behind Solomon Warriors – “The title is the ultimate aim, we prefer to think game by game”, said Marahare. The addition of a very important player may boost their chances in the hunt of the first placed team that currently is Solomon Warriors.