Central Coast captain Javin Wae says the Solomon Islands champions will look to press Auckland City high and prevent the New Zealand giants from controlling the game when the two sides meet in the OFC Champions League final.
Speaking exclusively to Oceania Football Center (OFCe) ahead of the decisive match, Wae gave a simple answer when asked how Central Coast intend to approach Auckland City.
“High press, and not let them play,” he said.
Central Coast reached the final after coming through a dramatic semifinal against Galaxy FC, becoming the first Solomon Islands club since 2009 to reach the decisive match of Oceania’s premier club competition.
For Wae, who has captained the side throughout the campaign, returning Solomon Islands football to this stage is a special moment.
“I’m happy to be back in the final,” he said.
Wae has also left his mark on the tournament individually. The midfielder scored a superb free-kick during Central Coast’s campaign, providing one of his standout moments in the competition.
The goal was no coincidence. Asked by OFCe whether taking free-kicks was something he had been specifically working on, Wae revealed that it is part of his regular routine.
“Yes, every day after training I do it,” he said.
His ability from set pieces could therefore become another important option for Central Coast in the final, particularly in a match where opportunities against Auckland City may be limited.
Beyond his contribution on the pitch, Wae has carried additional responsibility as Central Coast captain. He admitted the role is not easy but said he has tried to lead and inspire those around him.
“To be captain is not easy, but I’m doing my best to inspire my teammates,” Wae said.
Central Coast will now face the biggest challenge of their campaign against Auckland City, Oceania’s most successful club side. The Solomon Islands champions, however, will enter the final with confidence after their performances throughout the tournament and with a clear tactical idea of how they want to compete.
For Wae, disrupting Auckland City’s usual rhythm will be central to that approach. Central Coast intend to push higher up the pitch, apply pressure and deny their opponents the freedom to dictate possession.
The captain also called on Solomon Islands supporters, both at home and those currently in Fiji, to rally behind the team for the final.
“I would just like to say, please keep supporting the team back home. And for those in Fiji, come out in numbers this Saturday to support us,” he said.
Central Coast now have the opportunity to complete a historic campaign and bring the OFC Champions League title back to Solomon Islands football.
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