Oceania Football Center

Real Kakamora’s Paul Francis the star player as Solomon Islands unveil squad for U19 OFC Men’s Championship

As the anticipation builds for the upcoming U19 OFC Men’s Championship, the Solomon Islands Football Federation has unveiled its squad, which will head to Apia, Samoa next month. Among the promising young talents, Real Kakamora’s star striker, Paul Francis, stands out as the player to watch. With his team currently leading the Telekom S-League, the top flight league of the Solomon Islands, Francis is in scorching form and ready to spearhead his national team’s campaign.

Paul Francis, the dynamic striker from Real Kakamora, has been a revelation this season. His impressive goal-scoring ability and consistent performances have been pivotal in Kakamora’s ascent to the top of the Telekom S-League standings. Francis’s knack for finding the back of the net and his leadership on the field make him the ideal candidate to lead the U19 squad in their quest for glory in Samoa.

While Francis grabs the headlines, the U19 squad boasts several other notable talents who have been making waves in the domestic league. Gordon Iro, another standout from Real Kakamora, has been a crucial part of their success. Jayroll Patty of Central Coast and Junior Albert of Henderson Eels FC are also integral members of the squad.

Guiding this talented squad are head coach Batram Suri and assistant coach Franco Ne’e. Suri, a former international player with extensive experience, brings a wealth of knowledge and tactical acumen to the team. His understanding of the game and ability to inspire young players will be crucial in their preparation and performance. Franco Ne’e, currently the head coach of Solomon Warriors, complements Suri with his strategic insights and coaching expertise. Together, they form a formidable coaching duo capable of getting the best out of this young squad.

The Solomon Islands U19 team is set to face tough competition in Apia, Samoa, but with a blend of rising stars and experienced coaches, they are poised to make a significant impact. The championship presents a golden opportunity for these young players to showcase their talents on a bigger stage and potentially pave their way to future professional careers. As the countdown to the tournament continues, all eyes will be on Paul Francis and his teammates as they strive to bring pride and glory to the Solomon Islands. With their determination, skill, and teamwork, the U19 squad is ready to take on the best in Oceania and leave their mark on the U19 OFC Men’s Championship.

Gabriele Matanisiga: The remarkable journey to the OFC Nations Cup

Gabriele Matanisiga’s journey to the OFC Nations Cup is nothing short of inspiring. The 29-year-old defender, now a vital player for the Fiji National Team, has experienced an incredible transformation in his football career. From humble beginnings in Fiji, Matanisiga’s hard work, determination, and a touch of fate have led him to the prestigious OFC Nations Cup, where he currently showcases his talents.

Matanisiga first made a name for himself playing for Rewa, a prominent team in Fiji. His imposing presence on the field and his defensive prowess caught the attention of many, but it was his move to Wellington Olympic in New Zealand that truly marked the turning point in his career.

Reflecting on the unexpected nature of his journey, Matanisiga shared, “On December last year, I was asked to come and play for the Wellington BOG tournament. I thought I’d be going for a few weeks and then returning, but the person who had faith in me told me I would not be coming back to Fiji. I doubted him and myself too.”

The transition to New Zealand was swift and demanding. “My visa was approved on Thursday, and they wanted me to catch the first flight on Friday. I didn’t have time to pack my clothes or say goodbye to my loved ones,” he recounted. “My wife, who stood beside me, took a day off, and we went running around to apply for my job leave. For us in the Fiji police force, it takes weeks for the approval of leave, but everything fell into place just like we wanted.”

Upon arriving in New Zealand, Matanisiga’s talent was immediately recognized. “I had my first game on Saturday. Some Wellington scouts were watching that day. We won the tournament, and I was awarded the player of the match in both the semifinals and the final,” he said with pride.

His exceptional performance led to an invitation for trials with Wellington Olympic, and it took just three days for him to secure a spot on the main team. “All I could say is that I’m blessed, and I know that God is the same from the first till the end. I give back the glory and honor,” he expressed with gratitude.

Despite the challenges, including the heartbreaking loss of his grandfather, Matanisiga has remained steadfast in his pursuit of excellence. “One of my biggest challenges was when my grandfather passed away back in Fiji, but I know he’s proud of me because he wished that one day I’d be playing overseas. That’s why I sacrifice and stay back to continue my career,” he shared emotionally.

Matanisiga’s journey is a testament to his resilience and the unwavering support of his family. “Special thanks go to my number one motivation, my wife, and also my family back in Seaqaqa. My brother Donald, Ciku Lomu, and Wellington Lautoka families, and brother Kartik, and all that I may not mention, for believing and trusting in me,” he acknowledged.

Now, as he competes in the OFC Nations Cup, Gabriele Matanisiga’s story serves as an inspiration to aspiring footballers in Fiji and beyond. His journey from Rewa to Wellington Olympic, and now to the international stage, highlights the power of faith, dedication, and the belief that dreams can indeed come true.

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.

Ileen Pegi: a trailblazer for Solomon Islands women’s football

In a groundbreaking move for Solomon Islands football, Ileen Pegi has become the first female footballer from the nation to sign with an overseas club. At 31, Pegi has joined AS Academy Féminine (ASAF) from New Caledonia, the former OFC Women’s Champions League winners.

Pegi sees this as a significant opportunity, not only for herself but for all aspiring female footballers in the Solomon Islands. “I see it as a great opportunity,” Pegi said. “As a footballer, I’ve dreamed of playing overseas for many years. So, when ASAF asked me to join their team, I said yes. It’s the pathway that all Solomon Islands football girls and women dream of—not just playing in the Solomon Islands but continuing to pursue their careers in football. This door is opening not just for me but for all future players from my country who struggle to advance their careers.”

The journey to this milestone began in February this year when Pegi was in Samoa, ready to play in the Olympic Qualifiers for the Solomon Islands women’s team. She received a message from the ASAF coach inviting her to join the team for the OFC Women’s Champions League in the Solomon Islands. Due to her International Transfer Certificate (ITC) issues, she couldn’t join them then. However, ASAF extended another offer to play with the team in New Caledonia, which she accepted. “When I was in Samoa ready for my first game, I received a message from the ASAF coach asking me to join the team for the OFC Women’s Champions League in the Solomon Islands. But due to my ITC, I wasn’t able to join them. Then they offered me another chance to play with the team in New Caledonia. I accepted their offer to move and play for them this season.”

Pegi is thrilled and proud to represent all the women and girls in the Solomon Islands. “I’m just happy and proud to represent all the women and girls in the Solomon Islands,” she expressed.

Despite the challenges of adapting to a new team and environment, Pegi remains confident. She has already spent two weeks training with the team in Honiara and is familiar with a few teammates who speak English, which will ease the communication barrier. “I know it’s going to be difficult and challenging to adapt to my new team, but I know I’ll blend in easily with them. I already spent two weeks training with the team back in Honiara. I know a few teammates who speak English, so communication shouldn’t be a problem for me. It’s going to be a little slow adapting, but I know I will fit well. It’s a learning process.”

Pegi also shares her advice for the next generation of footballers in the Solomon Islands. “Work hard and have self-discipline. Always believe in yourself despite having challenges. Everyone is unique; don’t compare yourself with others. If I can make it in my 30s, I believe the younger generation can do it as well and go beyond where I am today. Be consistent in training, obey, be humble, and work hard to achieve your dreams. Put God first in everything.”

She emphasizes the importance of learning from mistakes and maintaining a positive mindset. “Accept mistakes and learn from them. Always be positive and have a strong mindset that you can reach another level in your career. There are always opportunities, but it’s up to us to work hard for them.”

Ileen Pegi’s move to AS Academy Féminine marks a historic moment for Solomon Islands women’s football, inspiring many young players to follow in her footsteps and pursue their dreams on an international stage.

Fiji’s defensive Vasconcellos gem attracts overseas interest

Sterling Vasconcellos, the 19-year-old central back from Fiji, is drawing considerable interest from overseas clubs. Currently playing for Lautoka in the national league, Vasconcellos has already established himself as a senior member of the national team.

His impressive performances for the Bula Boys at the OFC Nations Cup have been particularly noteworthy, enhancing his reputation as a formidable defender. Vasconcellos first caught the global eye during the FIFA U20 World Cup held in Argentina in 2023. His solid defensive skills and maturity on the field have made him a standout player.

In a recent interview with Oceania Football Center, Vasconcellos revealed that clubs from New Zealand have expressed interest in him, though no formal offers have been made yet. Among the interested parties is Wellington Olympic, a club where fellow Fijian Gabby Matanisiga currently plays, as reported by local sources.

As the OFC Nations Cup progresses in Vanuatu, there is speculation that Vasconcellos may soon make a move to New Zealand. This potential transfer follows his recent triumph with Lautoka, where he played a key role in securing the prestigious Fiji FACT tournament title. Interestingly, Vasconcellos holds a USA passport, courtesy of his Hawaiian father, adding another layer of intrigue to his potential future moves. As his career continues to ascend, it will be fascinating to see where this talented young defender lands next.

Eddy Kaspard: returning to roots ahead of OFC Nations Cup semifinal

Eddy Kaspard, one of the defenders of the Tahiti squad in the OFC Nations Cup, has made a heartwarming return to his ancestral roots. Kaspard, whose father, Abet Kaspard Tahi, hails from Laone village in North Pentecost, received a warm welcome from proud relatives upon his arrival at the airport today (Monday). This visit marks Kaspard’s return to Vanuatu as a young man, having first been brought here as a baby. He is now 23 years old.

In a touching scene, Kaspard is greeted by Nato Taiwia, a former football colleague of his father. Taiwia and Abet Kaspard Tahi were both part of the national team during the periods before and after Vanuatu’s independence, underscoring the rich football legacy within the Kaspard family.

Among the relatives greeting Kaspard was Collins Brown, who currently serves as the coach for Penama FC. Brown’s presence highlights the close-knit family ties and the significant role football plays in their lives.

Nato Taiwia and Eddy Kaspard – *Vanuatu Daily Post*

Tahiti is set to face New Zealand this Thursday (27th June) in the semifinal of the OFC Nations Cup at Freshwater Stadium in Port Vila. As Kaspard steps onto the field, he will not only carry the hopes of his Tahitian teammates but also the pride of his Vanuatu heritage. The support from his family and the memories of his father’s football legacy will undoubtedly inspire him in this crucial match.

The arrival of Kaspard and his team has created a buzz of excitement and pride among the local community, eager to support a player who embodies the connection between Tahiti and Vanuatu. This semifinal promises to be a memorable occasion, with Kaspard’s return to his roots adding an emotional dimension to the sporting event.

Source: Vanuatu Daily Post

Former Cagous and Hienghène Sport defender Pothin Poma makes his debut for Tahiti national team

Pothin Poma, 26-year-old, has emerged as a formidable defender for the Tahitian club AS Dragon and the Tahiti national team. Poma’s football journey is a tale of dedication, talent, and a significant national allegiance switch that has shaped his career.

Poma began his footballing career in New Caledonia, representing the nation at both youth and senior levels. His skills were honed at Hienghéne Sport, a club where he showcased his defensive prowess before making the move to Tahiti.

In Tahiti, Poma initially played for AS Vénus, where his exceptional performances caught the attention of AS Dragon. He soon made the transition to AS Dragon, one of Tahiti’s top clubs, solidifying his reputation as one of the finest defenders in Tahitian football.

The pivotal moment in Poma’s career came this year when he decided to switch his international allegiance from New Caledonia to Tahiti. This decision, informed by Tahiti’s national team coach Samuel Garcia, was facilitated by Poma having lived in Tahiti for over five years. Garcia explained that Poma had the option to continue representing New Caledonia or to don the colors of Toa Aito. Poma chose the latter, marking a new chapter in his international career.

Poma made his debut for Tahiti during the 2024 OFC Men’s Nations Cup in a crucial Group B match against Fiji. Despite Tahiti suffering a narrow 1-0 defeat, Poma’s performance stood out. He displayed composure, tactical awareness, and strong tackling ability throughout the match, earning him the Man of the Match award from the Oceania Football Confederation.

South Pacific football titans to clash in OFC Nations Cup semifinal at Freshwater Stadium

In an eagerly anticipated showdown, the top stars of Oceania football, Roy Krishna of Fiji and Brian Kaltak of Vanuatu, will face off in the semifinals of the OFC Nations Cup. The match is set to take place this Thursday, June 27th, at Freshwater Stadium in Port Vila, Vanuatu.

Roy Krishna, 36, stands as the all-time top scorer for both Fiji and any OFC member nation. He recently notched his 40th international goal in Fiji’s decisive victory over Tahiti – the striker is the top-scorer of the tournament so far with four in his tally. Krishna’s illustrious career includes stints in New Zealand’s semi-professional leagues, a notable period in Australia’s A-League where he was named the league’s best player while at Wellington Phoenix, and his current tenure in India, where he continues to excel. Krishna is celebrated across multiple continents, having won national championships and top scoring awards in both Australia and India. His journey began in Labasa, Vanua Levu, Fiji, before he rose to prominence on the international stage.

On the other side of the pitch, Brian Kaltak, 30, is set to represent Vanuatu. Kaltak has the distinction of being the first and only player from Vanuatu to play professionally. Currently a standout defender for Central Coast Mariners, Kaltak has been pivotal in their back-to-back A-League championships, earning recognition as one of the league’s best defenders. Kaltak’s footballing roots trace back to his village team, Erakor Golden Star, in Vanuatu. His career trajectory mirrors Krishna’s, progressing from New Zealand’s semi-professional leagues to the professional ranks in Australia.

Thursday’s semifinal promises to be a thrilling encounter. Fiji, with an impressive record of 15 goals scored and only 2 conceded in three games, comes into the match in formidable form. Vanuatu, despite a recent 4-0 defeat to New Zealand, will have the advantage of their home crowd’s passionate support at Freshwater Stadium.

The stakes are high as both teams vie for a coveted spot in the grand final of the OFC Nations Cup. Football fans across the region eagerly await this clash of titans, which will not only highlight the individual brilliance of Krishna and Kaltak but also celebrate the rich footballing traditions of the South Pacific.

As the anticipation builds, all eyes will be on Port Vila, where history will be made in this landmark encounter between Oceania’s finest football talents.

Joses Nawo: Solomon Islands did its best despite lack of preparation for OFC Nations Cup

In the aftermath of the OFC Nations Cup, Solomon Islands national team forward and captain Joses Nawo offered to Oceania Football Center his reflections on the tournament, the team’s performance, and his personal journey in football. The Solomon Islands, coached on an interim basis by Jacob Moli, faced disappointing results, losing 1-0 to Vanuatu and 3-0 to New Zealand, which ended their campaign earlier than anticipated.

Nawo believes the team did the best they could under challenging circumstances. “I think we did the best possible, but the boys training only seven days. Seven days is not enough, but I’m happy with the performance of the boys,” he stated. This sentiment underscores the difficulties the team faced with limited preparation time.

Addressing the fans’ disappointment, Nawo conveyed a message of understanding and resilience. “Game is game. One has to win and one has to lose. Oh sorry, we tried our best, but the results were not on our side,” he remarked. His words reflect the inherent unpredictability of sports and the effort the team put into their matches despite the unfavorable outcomes.

At 36 years old, Nawo expressed immense pride in his role as the captain of the national team. “I am very proud of being captain of the national team,” he said, highlighting his dedication and leadership. His experience and passion for the game continue to inspire both his teammates and fans.

Joses Nawo during the OFC Nations Cup – *VFF Media*

Currently, Nawo is playing for Galaxy FC in Vanuatu, where he continues to bring his expertise and commitment to the club level. His ongoing contributions to football, both domestically and internationally, demonstrate his significant impact on the sport in the South Pacific.

Despite the recent setbacks in the OFC Nations Cup, Joses Nawo remains a pivotal figure in Solomon Islands football, known for his resilience, leadership, and unwavering spirit on and off the pitch.

Raphael Lea’i departs back to Adelaide after disappointing OFC Nations Cup campaign

Raphael Lea’i, the rising star of Solomon Islands football, has returned to Adelaide, Australia, following his participation in the OFC Nations Cup. Lea’i, who wore the number 10 jersey for his country, saw his team exit the tournament in disappointment after suffering defeats in both their matches. The Solomon Islands were beaten by the hosts, Vanuatu, and later by the powerhouse New Zealand.

In the match against New Zealand, which ended in a 3-0 loss, Lea’i came closest to scoring for his side when he struck the post. Despite his efforts, the team was unable to convert any chances into goals throughout the competition.

Raphael Lea’i (yellow) during OFC Nations Cup – *OFC Media*

The 20-year-old striker recently signed with the NPL South Australia side Adelaide City and is expected to make his debut for the senior squad this coming Friday, June 28th. His move to Adelaide City marks a significant step in his burgeoning football career, as he looks to make an impact in the Australian league.

Lea’i’s departure from the Solomon Islands was an emotional affair, as he was waved goodbye by relatives at the airport. He has now flown back to Australia, where he will continue to develop his skills and pursue his footballing ambitions.

Solomon Islands’ campaign in the OFC Nations Cup may have ended in disappointment, but Raphael Lea’i’s future remains bright as he prepares for his upcoming debut with Adelaide City.