Tahiti is set to make a strong return to the OFC Nations Cup, bringing a mix of seasoned veterans and emerging talents to the tournament. The 2012 champions, led by coach Samuel Garcia, will compete in Group B alongside Fiji, Samoa, and Papua New Guinea. The group stage matches will be held in Suva, Fiji. Should Tahiti advance, the semifinals and finals will take place in Port Vila, Vanuatu.
The squad features a predominantly local lineup, with standout players such as Teaonui Tehau, affectionately known as Filou leading the charge. As Tahiti’s top all-time national team goalscorer, Tehau’s experience and scoring prowess will be crucial for the team’s success. Key players like Alvin Tehau, Matatia Paama, and Kevin Barbe bring additional experience and stability to the squad.
Incorporating some international flair, the team includes defender Teva Lossec, who is currently honing his skills in the US college system, and 20-year-old forward Matéo Degrumelle from Le Havre, a club in France’s top tier. Their inclusion is expected to add depth and versatility to the team.
Teaonui Tehau – Pamisire
Tahiti’s journey begins in Suva, where they will face tough competition in a bid to reach the semifinals in Vanuatu. The team is hopeful that their blend of local and international talent will pave the way for another successful campaign in the OFC Nations Cup.
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.
Solomon Islands team during one of the test matches – Island Sun
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.
John Orobulu, the 23-year-old striking sensation from the Solomon Islands, has firmly established himself as one of the brightest talents in the region’s football landscape. His meteoric rise to prominence began with a stellar performance in the Telekom S-League last season, catching the eye of former Solomon Islands head coach Felipe Vega-Arango. Orobulu’s knack for finding the back of the net earned him a well-deserved call-up for the national team, and he did not disappoint.
Orobulu’s ability to consistently score goals was on full display throughout the Telekom S-League season. His performances were nothing short of spectacular, as he showcased not only his scoring prowess but also his ability to influence games with his movement, positioning, and finishing. This exceptional form earned him a spot in the squad for the friendly matches and the prestigious 2023 Pacific Games, held on home soil in Honiara.
The Pacific Games turned out to be a stage where Orobulu shone brightly. He was a standout performer, netting a remarkable total of eight goals during the tournament. His five-goal haul against American Samoa was particularly memorable, highlighting his clinical finishing and ability to dominate opponents. Orobulu’s goal-scoring feats were pivotal in driving the Solomon Islands to the final. However, despite his impressive performances, the tournament ended in heartbreak for Orobulu and his teammates. In the final against New Caledonia, Orobulu’s missed penalty in the shootout proved decisive, and the Solomon Islands had to settle for a silver medal. Despite this setback, Orobulu emerged as the tournament’s top scorer, cementing his reputation as a prolific striker.
John Orobulu – Sol2023 Pacific Games Media
Back in the domestic league, Orobulu has continued to build on his impressive form. He has already netted seven goals this season, making him the second-highest scorer in the race for the golden boot. His consistent goal-scoring displays underline his importance to Southern United and his growing stature in Solomon Islands football. With the OFC Nations Cup on the horizon, the spotlight is firmly on Orobulu. The tournament, set to be held in Vanuatu this June, presents a new challenge for the striker. Interim head coach Jacob Moli has shown faith in Orobulu by including him in the squad, and the expectations are high. The key question is whether Orobulu can maintain his rich vein of form on this bigger stage.
Orobulu’s journey so far suggests that he has the talent and determination to succeed. His goal-scoring record speaks for itself, and his performances in the Pacific Games demonstrated his ability to perform under pressure. However, the OFC Nations Cup will test his consistency and resilience against tougher opponents and in more challenging conditions. For Orobulu, the upcoming tournament is an opportunity to showcase his skills on a larger platform and potentially attract attention from clubs beyond the Solomon Islands. If he can continue his goal-scoring streak and lead his team to success, it could mark the next significant step in his burgeoning career.
John Orobulu has already made a significant impact in Solomon Islands football, and his journey is just beginning. As he prepares for the OFC Nations Cup, the hopes of a nation rest on his shoulders. With his proven goal scoring prowess, Orobulu has the potential to not only excel in Vanuatu but also to carve out a legacy for football in his country. All eyes will be on this young striker to see if he can continue his remarkable form and inspire his team to glory.
New Zealand international midfielder Sarpreet Singh has become a free agent following his release from German club Hansa Rostock. Singh, along with 13 other players, will be leaving the club after its relegation to the 3rd tier of German football, 3. Bundesliga.
Singh, 25, joined Hansa Rostock on a three-year contract in July 2023. However, the agreement included a clause allowing the club to terminate the contract if relegated to the third division. This clause has now been activated, ending Singh’s stint with the team earlier than anticipated.
In a formal announcement, Hansa Rostock revealed that 11 players would depart as their contracts expired, while three players, including Singh, had agreements ‘not valid for the third division’, The club’s director of professional football, Amir Shapourzadeh, expressed gratitude towards the departing players, stating, “We would like to thank all the players who are leaving FC Hansa this summer and wish them all the best for the future. After relegation to the 3rd division, a major personnel shake-up is unavoidable.”
Singh in action for the All Whites in 2023 against Ireland – Photosport
Singh, who has 14 caps for the New Zealand national team, had hoped to rejuvenate his career in Germany after battling a long-term groin injury. He joined Hansa from Bayern Munich with aspirations of regular playing time and a fresh start. Unfortunately, Singh struggled to secure a spot in the starting lineup and ended his season on a sour note with a red card and subsequent suspension following his goal against FC Schalke on May 11, 2024.
The Auckland-born midfielder’s season was marred by limited opportunities and an early end, compounding the challenges he faced in re-establishing himself in European football. His exclusion from the All Whites‘ squad for the upcoming OFC Nations Cup in Vanuatu further highlights the difficult period he has endured.
As Singh navigates this transitional phase in his career, his future remains uncertain. Clubs in search of an experienced and dynamic midfielder will likely keep an eye on the New Zealand international as he explores new opportunities following his release from Hansa Rostock.
Standout football talent from the Solomon Islands and the South Pacific Raphael Lea’i has officially signed with Adelaide City FC for the remainder of the National Premier League (NPL) South Australia season, Oceania Football Center can confirm. The 20-year-old forward, who recently concluded his contract with FK Velež Mostar in May, is set to make his debut this weekend against the Adelaide Comets.
Lea’i’s move to Adelaide City marks a significant step in his burgeoning career. Very well-known in international media as the first-ever Solomon Islander to play pro-football in Europe, Lea’i is expected to bring a new level of excitement to the NPL South Australia. His signing was facilitated by the Player Performance Project (PPP), an Adelaide-based organization dedicated to nurturing and guiding talented athletes.
Lea’i, who has been widely recognized as the hottest football prospect from the Solomon Islands, has captured the attention of football enthusiasts across the South Pacific and worldwide. His transition to the Australian league is seen as a pivotal moment for his professional growth and a potential springboard to even greater opportunities in the football after a dissapointment tenure in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The hype on Raphael Lea’i has never played a good role for his own side; linked to multiple A-League moves when younger, the player never played in Australia before. The star striker ended up moving to Europe what proved to be a bite off more than he could chew. Hopefully for him and for the football in South Pacific, Lea’i will pave the correct way into professional football opening more doors from Islanders into the pinnacle of the sport in the region.
In the annals of football, moments of heartbreak often become defining stories that players and fans alike carry with them. One such story unfolded during the 2018 OFC U-16 Championship, where a promising Solomon Islands team faced off against New Zealand in a dramatic penalty shootout. This event not only marked a significant moment in the careers of young athletes but also paved the way for future stars, including the now-prominent goalkeeper Alex Paulsen, who recently signed with the English Premier League club Bournemouth.
The Solomon Islands team entered the tournament with high hopes, especially after a commanding 5-0 victory over New Zealand in the group stage. This win had sent waves of excitement and optimism throughout the nation, raising expectations for the final. Among the key players was Derick Taebo, a full-back who has since become a regular in the Telekom S-League playing for Henderson Eels.
As the final match against New Zealand approached, the anticipation was palpable. The match itself was a hard-fought battle, with both teams displaying immense skill and determination. Raphael Lea’i, now celebrated as one of Solomon Islands’ star players, had a golden opportunity to score during regular play when he was fouled inside the box. However, Alex Paulsen, New Zealand’s formidable goalkeeper, showcased his exceptional talent by saving Lea’i’s penalty, maintaining a tense deadlock.
The climax came with the penalty shootout, a nerve-wracking test of composure and skill under immense pressure. Derick Taebo stepped up to take his penalty, knowing that the hopes of his team and nation rested heavily on each shot. In a moment that would become etched in his memory, Taebo’s shot was expertly saved by Paulsen. This save proved to be the decisive moment, as New Zealand triumphed in the shootout, dashing Solomon Islands’ dreams of a championship victory.
Taebo en Paulsen pictured
Despite the heartbreak, the Solomon Islands’ performance in the tournament was commendable. They finished as runners-up but secured a historic qualification for the 2019 U-17 FIFA World Cup in Brazil, a remarkable achievement that showcased the growing talent within the nation.
Fast forward to the present, and Alex Paulsen’s career has skyrocketed. Known for his extraordinary ability to defend penalty kicks, Paulsen has continued to impress and earned himself multiple accolades in the last season playing for A-League’s Wellington Phoenix. His recent signing with Bournemouth in the English Premier League proveshis potential and what is set to come for him in the upcoming challenge in European football scenario. This achievement not only highlights his personal journey but also adds a layer of pride and reflection for those who faced him in their youth.
For Derick Taebo, reflecting on that fateful day in 2018 brings a mix of emotions. While the pain of a missed opportunity lingers, there is a unique sense of pride in knowing that his penalty was saved by a goalkeeper who has reached the pinnacle of professional football. It is a small but significant consolation, a reminder of the fine margins that separate triumph from heartbreak in football stories.
As the footballing world continues to turn, the stories of these young athletes intertwine, creating a rich tapestry of memories and milestones. The journey from the OFC U-16 Championship to the bright lights of the Premier League serves as an inspiration to aspiring footballers in the Solomon Islands and beyond. It is a story of resilience, talent, and the unpredictable nature of football, where every moment, every save, and every missed opportunity contributes to the broader narrative of the beautiful game.
Nicolas King, the towering 190cm, 20-year-old football talen, has recently made waves by leaving Mauriki FC in Vanuatu to join Valentine FC in Australia’s National Premier League (NPL) New South Wales.
Since making the move, King has been adjusting to his new environment and the elevated style of play. “I’m getting used to the environment and the style of play,” he shared. “It’s definitely different and heaps levels higher than what I played back in Vanuatu, but I’m enjoying it very much.”
Valentine FC has had a strong start to the season with four wins and four clean sheets, and King has been a significant part of this success. “We started off with four wins and four clean sheets. I played all the games so far in the season,” he said, underscoring his immediate impact on the team.
King’s transition to Australian football was inspired by fellow Vanuatu footballer Brian Kaltak, the only professional player from their country who currently plays in the A-League. “The goal to be able to continue what Brian Kaltak has started and hopefully get more talented players into Aussie,” King expressed.
Reflecting on how it all began, King recounted, “It started off when Brian came to Vanuatu after the A-League win last year. I spoke to my parents about it, and we brought him over. We set up a stage for him to speak about his experience to a group of about 100 people. After the show, I caught up with Brian and spoke to him a bit more, asked him some questions, and he told me he’d recommended me to Joshua James.” King is son of Julia King who is a former member of the Vanuatu women’s national football team and represented Vanuatu at the 2003 South Pacific Games and currently serves as Member of the Parliament of Vanuatu and is also a businesswoman.
King (orange) in action for Valentine
Joshua James, believed to be the founder of the PPP Project that works alongside Kaltak, played a crucial role in King’s journey. “Joshua had come to Vanuatu to sort of know the place because he was going to be the brains behind Brian’s academy he is planning to start back home in Vanuatu,” King explained. “Whilst there, we managed to get in touch with him and so we caught up, and he said that with my height and physique, it would help my chances of getting into a club here better.“
King’s journey included trials with the Central Coast Mariners youth team and Central Coast United before he finally settled with Valentine FC. “I trialed with CCM for two weeks but I think they were only into their season at that point so they couldn’t bring in players, so they recommended Central Coast United. I trained with them for 2 days and before I came back to Vanuatu managed to get a trial with Valentine. Both clubs made offers, but I felt the coaching team and the environment at Valo would be better for my development and that’s how I ended up here.”
Playing as a left-sided center back, a position that isn’t his natural side, has been a challenge for King, but he’s adapting well. “Personally, I feel I’m improving. I’m seeing the game at a different level and changing little things here and there. At the moment, I’m playing on the left side as center back which is not my natural side, so that’s been my struggle but I’m getting used to it.”
King is also adapting to the faster pace and technical demands of Australian football. “I feel I’ve adapted pretty well, gotten used to the weather, and referring to style of play, I think it’s just done at such a quicker pace. In Vanuatu, you pass the ball however you want, whereas here you have to get technique right because it helps shift the ball faster and just little things. But I feel I’m growing and am enjoying it here.”
King’s aim is clear: “My aim is to make it pro in the next two years.” Given his progress and determination, this goal seems well within his reach. His journey from Vanuatu to Australia is a promising sign for the future of Vanuatu football, inspiring many young talents back home to follow in his footsteps.
With Valentine FC currently sitting 5th in the NPL NSW table and King having already scored a goal, his star is indeed on the rise. The local community in Vanuatu will undoubtedly be watching closely and cheering for Nicolas King as he continues to shine on the international stage.
Papua New Guinea football fans recently learned about the national team squad called-up for the OFC Nations Cup; with the exclusion of Raymond Gunemba from the list by head coach Warren Moon for the OFC Nations Cup it may signalize the end of his tenure as national team rep. At 38 years old, Gunemba, a legendary striker in Papua New Guinea football, faces the possibility that his time representing his country has come to an end. This omission marks a significant transition for both Gunemba and the national team, signaling the conclusion of an era that has seen his remarkable contributions to the sport. The last time Raymond was called up was not under Moon’s guidance, it was still in 2023 for friendly matches, indicating the veteran might be not in the plans of the new head coach.
Gunemba’s journey in football has been a storied one, characterized by passion, dedication, and numerous achievements. He has been a mainstay in the Kapuls for over a decade, where he showcased his exceptional scoring skills and leadership on the field. Gunemba’s impact extended beyond his national team duties, notably thriving with Lae City Dwellers, where he etched his name into the annals of Papua New Guinea football history.
Born into a football family, with his father Peter Gunemba being a legendary local coach, Raymond inherited a deep-seated love for the sport. Under his father’s guidance and influence, Gunemba honed his talents and emerged as one of the most prolific strikers in Papua New Guinea’s football landscape. His journey took him beyond the shores of his homeland, as he ventured into football leagues in New Zealand and Australia, further enriching his experience and skill set. Raymond’s brothers, Troy and Meagen Gunemba, also followed the steps of their father and represented their country internationally as well.
Raymond Gunemba – MSG Prime Ministers Cup
One of the defining partnerships of Gunemba’s career was with fellow striker Nigel Dabinyaba. Together, they formed a formidable duo that struck fear into opposing defenses, showcasing a synergy that elevated the Papua New Guinea national team’s performances. However, with neither Gunemba nor Dabinyaba featuring in Moon’s plans for rejuvenating the squad, it signals a shift towards a new generation of players for Papua New Guinea football.
While Gunemba’s exclusion may mark the end of his international career, his contributions to Papua New Guinea football will forever be etched in the memories of fans and the history books of the local sport. As the national team transitions to a new era under Warren Moon’s leadership, it is a poignant moment to reflect on Gunemba’s remarkable journey and the indelible mark he has left on the beautiful game in Papua New Guinea.
Fiji’s head coach, Rob Sherman, has called up the national team for the OFC Nations Cup, with the Group B matches set to be held in Suva, Fiji. The Fijians are grouped alongside Papua New Guinea, Tahiti and Samoa. Should the Bula Boys advance, the knockout stage will take place in Port Vila, Vanuatu. The squad includes a mix of home-based talents and overseas players, spearheaded by the team captain and legendary striker, Roy Krishna, who is the all-time top scorer for Fiji and currently plays for Odisha in India.
Among the notable overseas-based players are defender Scott Wara from Stalybridge Celtic, a club in England’s eighth tier (Step 4), and several players plying their trade in New Zealand. These include former Rewa defender Gabriele Matanisiga, now with Wellington Olympic, ex-Ba attacker Nabil Begg who is part of Auckland City, and defender Brendan McCullen from Stop Out. Additionally, young goalkeeper Ayidin Mustahib, who plays for Manurewa, is another standout New Zealand-based player.
Roy Krishna for Fiji – Pacific Games 2023
From the domestic league, the squad boasts some of Fiji’s finest talents. Sairusi Nalaubu, the top scorer of the Fiji top tier for the last four seasons, is a significant inclusion. Midfielders Setareki Hughes and Tevita Waranaivalu, both key players for Rewa, are also part of the team. In defense, Lautoka’s Antonio Tuivuna and his teammate Sterling Vasconcellos are expected to bolster the backline.
Sherman’s selection demonstrates a strategic blend of experienced international players and promising local talents, aiming to harness both skill sets to make a strong impact in the OFC Nations Cup. With the inclusion of these key players, the Bula Boys are geared up to compete fiercely on their home turf in Suva, and hopefully, secure their place in the knockout stages in Vanuatu
The Papua New Guinea national football team has officially announced its squad for the upcoming OFC Nations Cup. Set to compete in Group B against Samoa, Fiji, and Tahiti, the team is preparing for a challenging tournament held in Suva, Fiji – the knockout stage, if the Kapuls advance, will be played at Freshwater Stadium in Port Vila, Vanuatu.
Coached by Australian and former Brisbane Roar manager Warren Moon, the squad has undergone significant changes aimed at infusing youthful energy and talent. Moon has made a concerted effort to recruit players from overseas, resulting in a blend of experienced veterans and promising young stars.
Among the notable returns is Melbourne Knights winger Tommy Semmy, whose presence is expected to bolster the team’s attacking options. The defense will be strengthened by Alwin Komolong of Lions FC in Australia, who will be joined by his brother Felix Komolong, forming a solid defensive partnership. Key veteran players like Ronald Warisan, the experienced goalkeeper from Lae City Dwellers, and the Kepo brothers, Ati and Kolu, from Hekari United, also feature prominently in the squad. Daniel Joe, another stalwart defender from Hekari, and Emmanuel Simon, Lae City’s influential midfielder, round out the seasoned core of the team.
Alwin Komolong, Tommy Semmy, Ronald Warisan and Yagi Yasasa pictured
In a strategic move to build for the future, Moon has included several younger players. Hekari United’s young talents Yagi Yasasa, Godfrey Haro, and Solomon Rani have been given the nod, highlighting the club’s contribution to the national team. Additionally, Lennard Atterwell, an 18-year-old full-back who recently played for Alcochetense U19 in Portugal, has been called up. Other young inclusions are Jethro Yumange, a forward currently playing in the USA for River Light in USL 2, and Raymond Diho, a 17-year-old defender from North Geelong Warriors in Australia.
The squad announcement reflects a balanced approach, combining the experience needed to compete at a high level with the exuberance of youth, aiming to make a significant impact in the OFC Nations Cup.
Oceania Football Center 