Solomon Islands finishes preparations for the OFC Nations Cup under Jacob Moli guidance

The Solomon Islands senior men’s national team has wrapped up its preparations for the OFC Nations Cup, with a series of friendly matches providing a critical assessment of the squad’s readiness. Under the guidance of interim head coach Jacob Moli, the team played three test matches against local combined teams, showing promising form and resilience.

In a series of matches at Lawson Tama Stadium, the national team secured two decisive victories against the national U19 team, which itself is gearing up for the Oceania U19 Championship in Samoa next month. The senior squad triumphed with a 3-0 win in the first match, followed by a narrow 1-0 victory in the second. These games highlighted the squad’s defensive solidity and attacking prowess, essential elements for success in the upcoming tournament.

The final test match saw the national team facing a Telekom Super League (TSL) select side, led by Solomon Warriors FC coach Franco Ne’e. This match ended in a 1-1 draw, providing a balanced contest that tested the team’s adaptability and composure under pressure. After a goalless first half, the TSL select side took the lead with a penalty converted by Ben Fox. However, the national team demonstrated their fighting spirit, equalizing three minutes before full-time with a well-struck volley by Marlon Tahioa.

These preparatory matches have been crucial for the team’s development, allowing coach Jacob Moli to evaluate his squad’s strengths and areas for improvement. The team will now focus on recovery before their departure to Vanuatu on Monday afternoon. The arrival of overseas-based players over the weekend will bolster the squad, adding depth and experience.

Among the notable additions, Rewa FC defender Leon Kofana joined the team yesterday but did not participate in the final test match due to compassionate reasons. National team striker Raphael Lea’i, who recently signed with Adelaide City FC for the remainder of the season, will join the squad today. Furthermore, Vanuatu-based players Atkin Kaua and Joses Nawo are set to meet the team upon their arrival in Vanuatu on Monday evening.

The Nations Cup 2024, set to be held in Fiji and Vanuatu, will feature Pool A matches in Vanuatu and Pool B matches in Fiji. Following the withdrawal of New Caledonia from the tournament due to a national crisis, Pool A will now comprise only three teams: Solomon Islands, New Zealand, and host Vanuatu. Pool B in Suva includes Papua New Guinea, Tahiti, Samoa, and co-hosts Fiji. The top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals in Port Vila.

As the Solomon Islands team looks ahead to the Nations Cup, the recent test matches have provided valuable insights and momentum. The strong performance in these preparatory games, combined with the addition of key players, positions the team to make a significant impact in the tournament. The squad’s readiness and the strategic guidance of interim coach Jacob Moli will be pivotal as they aim for success on the upcoming tournament.