Mateo Degrumelle: Tahiti’s talented prodigy confident in upsetting New Zealand

Mateo Degrumelle, the dynamic winger for the Tahiti national team, has been making headlines with his stellar performances in the ongoing OFC Nations Cup. At just 20 years old, Degrumelle has already scored twice, leading his team to the semifinals where they will face the formidable New Zealand.

Reflecting on the team’s journey so far, Degrumelle says, “We finished second in our group with a victory against a strengthened Samoa team. We drew against a spirited Papua New Guinea side and narrowly lost by just one goal to the group leaders, whom we managed to challenge until the end. I think the team’s performance has been positive, especially considering the various difficulties related to injuries and illnesses. We’ve come through it very well.”

Degrumelle’s football journey began in a small amateur club, AS Canton d’Argueil, before he moved to Rouen, playing notably for Quevilly Rouen Métropole (Ligue 2). He then spent four years at the professional club Amiens SC, where he made his debut with the first team and was part of the Ligue 2 squad for a year. Most recently, he played with the reserve team of Le Havre AC (Ligue 1) until his stint ended in May.

“Yes, I made appearances in Ligue 2 with Amiens,” he notes. “I am currently a free agent.”

Looking ahead to the semifinal clash against New Zealand, Degrumelle remains optimistic. “We have every chance, even though New Zealand is the favorite of the competition. Anything can happen in a single match, and that’s the beauty of football. We will prepare properly, analyze them, and try to put all the odds in our favor for this match.”

As Tahiti gears up for the crucial semifinal, all eyes will be on Degrumelle, whose talent and determination could prove to be the key in overcoming the regional powerhouse.