Oceania Football Center

Solomon Islands: SIFF bids farewell to esteemed coach Felipe Vega-Arango

The Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) along with the broader football community has paid tributes to Felipe Vega-Arango, the outgoing Head Coach of the National Team. A farewell dinner was hosted in his honor, marking the end of his renewed tenure as Head Coach, which he decided not to extend further.

Vega-Arango’s journey with SIFF began in March 2017 when he was appointed Technical Director. By 2019, his exceptional contributions saw him promoted to Head Coach, a position he retained through a contract renewal in 2021. Over his seven-year involvement, he remarkably improved the National Team’s FIFA World Ranking from 188 to 132, a significant achievement in the Oceania region.

Under his leadership, the senior team secured redemption in the 2023 Melanesian Cup and clinched second place at the Pacific Games. Beyond these victories, Vega-Arango’s role in advancing the High-Performance delivery pathway within the federation has been invaluable.

SIFF President Donald Marahare lauded Vega-Arango for his dedication and impact on the sport in the Solomon Islands: “Your passion, work, and commitment will always be appreciated by football, and we want to wish you well in your future endeavors. Remember, Solomon Islands is always your home,” Marahare stated.

As he prepares to leave the Solomon Islands this week, Vega-Arango emphasized the importance of nurturing young talent. “Invest more in youth football to see Solomon football flourish. In Solomon Islands, you have to invest in the children. That is the only way,” he urged. Expressing his deep connection to the country, Vega-Arango said, “I am so sad. Words don’t describe my sadness, and it is a sad day. The Solomon Islands stole my heart.”

He extended his gratitude to the SIFF staff, coaches, players, and the broader football community for the wonderful years spent together. His departure has been met with heartfelt tributes from national players, football officials, and friends who acknowledged his significant contributions to the sport.

In honor of Vega-Arango, a farewell match was organized at the Lawson Tama Stadium. The event featured social clubs such as SIFF Titans, S-Titans, and Legals United, celebrating his legacy in a fitting manner.

As the Solomon Islands football community bids farewell to Vega-Arango, his influence and the strides he made for the sport will be remembered and cherished for years to come.

Interview: Tongan women’s football pioneer Laveni Vaka signs professional contract in United States

The 22-year-old football star from Tonga Laveni Vaka signed a professional contract recently with Fort Lauderdale United FC in United States; the defender was drafted by Bay FC into the National Women’s Soccer League, the most important club football league of United States, but recently left the newly-formed side to join another league; the USL Super League, a league planned to start this August to be NWSL rivals for the top-tier league in United States’ women’s football system. “I wasn’t a right fit for Bay FC and I’m so excited to be playing in the new USL Super League. It provides the same opportunity as the NWSL and for women to be professional soccer players in America“, stated Vaka to Oceania Football Center on his new move to USL Super League.

“It is an honor to not only represent Tonga but the Pacific Islands in the NWSL draft“, said the Tongan international – “Beforehand I had not thought about being the first until I was drafted. It truly means a lot to me and I hold that title with my head high. I hope other Polynesian women and men follow in my footsteps“, she added.

Laveni Vaka during the NWSL Draft – *BYU Women’s Soccer Media*

Vaka seems excited about the development of the sport back in the islands – alongside her now, the men’s section also counts on a professional player that is Ata Inia: “I have always wanted soccer to become popular back in the islands. It is starting to get there and I can’t wait to see the growth of the sport continue just like rugby has. I want to continue being that role model for them. I hope to one day go back and coach in Tonga“, said Vaka stating also her future plans – “It has definitely developed in the past five years and it is only going to keep getting better. There is always room for improvement“, added Laveni, that also had a twin sister playing in US in the collegiate system, Daviana, that also represented Tonga in the past.

Of course, the goals are high are for the upcoming season in North America – her first in a professional football environment: “I hope to contribute to FTL by helping them win a USL championship and make a name for myself in the professional soccer world“, said the defender.

“As I begin on this historic journey, I carry your hopes, dreams, and encouragement with me every step of the way“, said Vaka towards the Tongan and South Pacific football fans – “I’m rewriting the narrative of possibility and proving that with determination and resilience, anything is achievable. Thank you for being the driving force behind my success. I hope I can continue to inspire you all that there are no bounds for us“, she added leaving a final message for the local fans.

Stories like how Vaka is living gives a glimpse of hope for the South Pacific football community; in the recent years many young footballers have left the shores of our region to develop their game overseas. Vaka, born and raised in USA, live a different story, giving back to her roots and inspiring the young generations.

Solomon Islands’ football community shocked by Western Province’s star player Arnold Neboth death

Arnold Neboth, the standout striker for Western Tomoko during their triumphant 2020 Solomon Cup campaign, has passed away. His death has been met with an outpouring of grief from the Solomon Islands football community. The cause of his death has not been disclosed.

Neboth was a pivotal figure in the 2020 Solomon Cup, a tournament that saw unprecedented viewership, amassing over a thousands of views on Facebook and YouTube. His partnership with Jaygray Sipakana was instrumental in Western Tomoko’s success, as the duo scored crucial goals throughout the competition.

One of Neboth’s most memorable moments came during the 2020 Solomon Cup semifinal, where his last-minute freekick against Lauru Kuvojo secured Western Tomoko a crucial spot in the finals. The goal, described as a “screamer,” is considered one of the best in the tournament’s history.

Despite his talents and the opportunity to play for top Telekom S-League (TSL) clubs, Neboth chose to remain in his home province, continuing to play football at a local level. His loyalty and dedication to his home region have been widely admired.

Arnold Neboth (green) in 2020 Solomon Cup – *SIFF Media*

Following the news of his passing, several notable players from across the Solomon Islands took to social media to express their condolences. Among them was Jaygray Sipakana, now a striker for the Solomon Warriors, who paid tribute to his former teammate and friend.

Neboth’s death is a significant loss to the local football community, and he will be remembered for his remarkable contributions to Western Tomoko’s historic 2020 Solomon Cup campaign and his unwavering commitment to his home province.

Telekom S-League: James Naka takes on goalkeeper role in Juniper Tree’s narrow defeat to Waneagu

In the latest round of the Telekom S-League, – played this Saturday 25th May – the Solomon Islands premier league, seasoned forward and beach soccer legend James Naka displayed extraordinary versatility and commitment by stepping into the goalkeeper role for his team, Juniper Tree, during a narrow defeat to Waneagu United. The match ended with a tight scoreline, showcasing Naka’s remarkable adaptability and dedication to his team.

Juniper Tree found themselves in a precarious situation as their only available goalkeeper was suspended by the club board for misbehavior. Their backup goalkeeper, who was in his village outside Honiara, was unable to make it in time for the match. Faced with this crisis, the team turned to Naka, a veteran player renowned for his skills both on the pitch and in beach soccer. Despite being 39 years old and primarily known as a forward, Naka did not hesitate to don the gloves and take his place between the posts.

James Naka (orange) as a goalkeeper – Waneagu Media

Local fans lauded Naka for his performance, noting that his efforts helped Juniper maintain a respectable scoreline and keep the match competitive despite the unusual circumstances. His performance underscored his experience and leadership, attributes he has honed over years of playing in various leagues, including Fiji and most notably Vanuatu and the Solomon Islands national team, where he has made numerous appearances both on the pitch and in beach soccer tournaments. Naka’s career also includes participations in the OFC Champions League, further highlighting his extensive footballing pedigree.Naka’s willingness to step up in a challenging situation exemplifies his commitment to his team and the sport.

His performance as a makeshift goalkeeper not only earned the respect of his teammates and fans but also demonstrated the spirit of adaptability and resilience that is essential in football.

Solomon Islands’ star Raphael Lea’i to explore new opportunities as contract with Velež Mostar ends

Finally the Solomon Islands’ football star Raphael Lea’i will be able to return to club football as his contract with his former club FK Velež Mostar from Bosnia and Herzegovina is set to expire. The player was unable to join any football club unless a compensation fee could be paid to his parent club in Europe, but the contract is set to expire by the end of this month – exactly on 31th May, 2024. After that, the play will be considered a free agent, being able to sign for any football club. The details were confirmed by FK Velež Mostar staff in interview to Oceania Football Center.

In 2023, Lea’i had the chance of his career after achieving success with Solomon Islands national team and his domestic club Henderson Eels. The player caught the attention of FK Velež Mostar, one of the most traditional clubs of Bosnia and Herzegovina, where he attended trials and signed his first professional contract. But after allegeled adaptation problems from the youngster, he departed from the club on August, 2023. Lea’i was impressing in Bosnia and becoming slowly a fan favourite of the locals in Mostar – the player managed to score his first professional goals and even recorded assists in national league matches.

SEE MORE:
Raphael Lea’i situation in FK Velez Mostar explained;
Raphael Lea’i related news.

Since his departure and return to Honiara, the player was unable to play any club football, although he featured for Solomon Islands national team in friendly matches and in the Pacific Games held in home soil where his nation ended up in the second place losing to New Caledonia in the goal medal match.

Raphael Lea’i in action during training sessions with his former club – *Anadoljia*

Currently, Lea’i is training with the national team gearing up for the upcoming OFC Nations Cup to be played in Vanuatu and Fiji. The Bonitos are grouped alongside New Caledonia, New Zealand and hosts Vanuatu – being the group hosted in Port Vila.

There were not official offers already presented to the player of public knowledge, although Oceania Football Center found out Lea’i is being scouted by clubs from Australia and a possible move to the neighbouring country is on the cards in the next months. The striker, that is still only 20-years-old, has a lot in his future and a move overseas is seen as must for his development as footballer to help the betterment of football in his country.

Gagame Feni: Solomon Warriors to shift focus to Telekom S-League after OFC Champions League group stage elimination

The defending champions of the top-tier league of Solomon Islands didn’t manage to get a point in the Group A of the OFC Champions League 2024 – they ended up losing by 2-0 to Hekari United from Papua New Guinea, 3-2 for Rewa of Fiji and an emphatic defeat in the final group match to the later champions Auckland City from New Zealand by 5-0.

The Solomon Islands’ international and Warriors team captain Gagame Feni talked to Oceania Football Center about the campaign of his side in the tournament, that was not faced as a failure by the experienced striker: “I want to thank God for making us reaching another O-League; The boys played well, despite the results – Football is like thatm when you don’t finish your chances and stay concentrated for 90 minutes, you lose the game“, said Feni that scored the only two goals of his side curing the O-League‘s campaign.

Gagame Feni in action during the OFC Champions League – *OFC Media*

Feni stated the wasted goalscoring chances by his team were crucial for not going ahead in the competition, but now it is past – the team coached by Franco Ne’e will focus on their return to Honiara and the domestic league. “We switch our focus to TSL now, I believe in the boys will do what they capable of. It’s won’t be easy, Central Coast and few other teams in the league are very strong, we just need to put our heads back in tsl now to defend the title“, said Feni to Oceania Football Center.

As Warriors return home, their next match will be this Wednesday (29th May) against SOSA FC. Due their campaign in OFC Champions League, most of their matches were postponed: Warriors sit now six points away the leaders Real Kakamora, but there are still three matches to catch up in comparison to all other clubs involved in the competition. Before their travel to Tahiti, Warriors had won all their three encounters in the national league. Will Feni and his teammates be able to cope with the pressure and win another Telekom S-League season?

Brian Kaltak: back-to-back A-League champion

The Vanuatu international Brian Kaltak could not have a better final day of season in Australia; with a lot of emotion, his Central Coast Mariners managed to overcome Melbourne Victory in the extra-time thanks to the supersubs introduced by the coach Mark Jackson; Ryan Edmondson scored twice and the youngster Miguel Di Pizio once.

The 30-year-old national hero from Vanuatu celebrated his third trophy of the year as his team won the Premier’s Plate and the AFC Cup – Mariners is the first ever Australian team to complete a treble.

Jason Geria put Victory ahead in the early minutes of the second half after a first period without many scoring chances; Mariners pulled upfront in desperate need for an equalizer that only came in injury time through Ryan Edmondson, sending the game to extra-time. In the first 15 minutes of the extra-period, it was the youngster Miguel Di Pizio who found the back of the net to put Mariners ahead. Then, it was the turn of Melbourne Victory to search for a desparate equalizer, that unfortunately did not come for them. In the dying minutes, Edmondson gave the final numbers of the match to seal the back-to-back to A-League title for the Gosford team.

As for Brian Kaltak, that played all the 120 minutes, being pivotal in the defensive end for Mariners he continues to make historic in Australian football; It is only his second professional season in A-League and he celebrates his second national title, alongside the treble of the current season.

The proof of the talent coming from the Pacific Islands, the player that one day defended teams like Erakor Golden Star, Lautoka, Solomon Warriors and Hekari United is now considered the best defender of the premier Australian football league. The heroics of Brian Kaltak will be forever remember and there’s certainly more to come for the “The Brick Wall of Gosford“!

Auckland City FC extends dominant reign with 4-0 Win over AS Pirae to celebrate its 12th OFC Champions League Title

Auckland City FC triumphed once again, securing their 12th OFC Men’s Champions League title with a commanding 4-0 victory over AS Pirae at Stade Pater in Papeete. This win also marked their third consecutive title, further cementing their dominance in the region.

Albert Riera’s side showcased their clinical prowess early on, despite a strong start from AS Pirae, who were buoyed by their home crowd. The hosts’ Désiré Ngiamba posed an early threat down the left flank, troubling Auckland City’s Nathan Lobo, who received a yellow card for a desperate shirt pull.

However, Auckland City capitalized on their opportunities efficiently. Just six minutes into the match, Adam Mitchell headed down a precise free-kick from Cam Howieson, allowing Michael Den Heijer to side-foot the ball into the net from close range, putting the visitors ahead.

Pirae fought back energetically but struggled to penetrate Auckland City’s solid defense. The New Zealand side extended their lead on the half-hour mark with a brilliant piece of play from Gerard Garriga. The Spanish midfielder’s incisive through ball found Liam Gillion, who expertly rounded goalkeeper François Decoret and slotted into the empty net.

The second half began with Auckland City further asserting their dominance. Only three minutes in, Stipe Ukich, the semi-final hero, cut in from the left and delicately curled a right-footed shot into the far corner, making it 3-0.

Auckland City sealed their victory just over ten minutes later. Another free-kick from Howieson found its mark, as central defender Christian Gray rose above the defense to nod the ball past Decoret, solidifying a 4-0 lead.

AS Pirae continued to search for a breakthrough but were repeatedly thwarted. Ngiamba’s effort from inside the box narrowly missed the target, and captain Alvin Tehau’s deflected shot struck the outside of the post. Heirauarii Salem’s curling attempt from distance also went just over the bar, epitomizing Pirae’s frustrating evening.

Auckland City FC celebrates their 12th O-League trophy – *OFC* *Media*

Auckland City’s well-organized defense and relentless intensity proved insurmountable for the hosts, showcasing the qualities that have made them champions yet again. With this victory, Auckland City not only extends their record number of titles but also earns a spot in the inaugural FIFA Intercontinental Cup later this year.

Nothing new in Oceania, but still an extraordinary achievement, Auckland City FC continues to set the standard in OFC football, with their latest triumph reaffirming their status as the premier team in the region.

Hall and Kaltak: Pacific duo set to shine for Central Coast Mariners in A-League Grand Final

As the Central Coast Mariners prepare to defend their A-League Men title in the grand final against Melbourne Victory, the spotlight is firmly on their formidable centre-back pairing: Dan Hall and Brian Kaltak. This duo, hailing from the Pacific Islands, has not only anchored one of the league’s tightest defenses but also brought a unique cultural bond to the team.

Island Roots, Strong Bonds

Dan Hall, born in Fiji but raised in Australia by adoptive parents, and Brian Kaltak, a Vanuatu international, have formed an unlikely yet highly effective partnership at the heart of the Mariners’ defense. Their chemistry on and off the field has been a cornerstone of the team’s success, helping the Mariners achieve a league-high 13 clean sheets this season.

“It’s crazy to have two island boys playing at centre back together,” Kaltak remarked, highlighting the rarity and significance of their pairing. “What we both do, we want to inspire other guys to make it to this high level of football.“

A Journey of Growth and Resilience

Kaltak, who signed his first professional contract only last year at the age of 29, has been a revelation. His physical presence and tactical acumen have earned him the nickname “The Brick Wall of Gosford.” Hall, on the other hand, has had his best season to date, benefiting immensely from playing alongside Kaltak. The 24-year-old has not only solidified his defensive skills but also developed a deep respect and camaraderie with his partner.

“I’m just happy to be next to the brick wall of Gosford,” Hall shared. “I’m happy to be his sidekick. All the praise and accolades he gets are deserved because he’s been such a huge part of this team.”

Hall’s journey has not been without challenges. He faced the disappointment of losing his place in the team to Nectar Triantis during last year’s grand final run. However, his resilience and determination have seen him reclaim his spot and excel this season.

“He got his injury and then he was left out of the starting side and Nectar came in,” Kaltak recounted. “But this season he has really stood up in his position and he owns it every week. I’m proud of what he’s achieved this season.”

Hall and Kaltak celebrating the semifinal win over Sydney FC – *A-League Media*

Future Prospects and International Dreams

While Hall has never represented Fiji at the international level, rumors persist that he could one day don the Fijian jersey. His performances this season have certainly put him on the radar, and many fans are hopeful that he will choose to represent his birth nation in the future.

For now, Hall is focused on the immediate task at hand – leading the Mariners to a second successive A-League Men’s title. The grand final not only represents a chance for silverware but also an opportunity for Hall and Kaltak to inspire the next generation of Pacific Island footballers.

“To have someone like Brian waving the flag and representing the islands so well is inspirational,” Hall said. “If you look at how he managed to get to where he is, it inspires anyone – not just people from the islands, but anyone who listens to his story.”

As the Mariners gear up for the grand final, the partnership of Hall and Kaltak stands as a testament to the power of perseverance, cultural pride, and the unifying spirit of football. Their journey together is far from over, and their legacy is already inspiring countless aspiring footballers from the Pacific Islands and beyond.

Eddie Marahare declines interim Head Coach position for Solomon Islands National Team to avoid conflict of interest

The experienced Eddie Marahare, the head coach of Kossa FC in the Telekom S-League, has declined the offer to serve as the interim head coach of the Solomon Islands national team for the upcoming OFC Nations Cup scheduled for June. The position will now be filled by Jacob Moli of Central Coast FC.

Marahare, who has been a prominent figure in Solomon Islands sports scene, took to social media to explain his decision. He expressed both his gratitude and the reasoning behind his choice, highlighting his commitment to maintaining the integrity of the Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF).

“I am honoured and deeply appreciative of the offer to serve as the interim Head Coach of the Solomon Islands senior national soccer team. It is a role that I hold in high regard and one that would have allowed me to contribute directly to the development and success of our national team,” Marahare began in his statement.

Despite his passion and qualifications for the role, including his successful completion of the OFC Regional B License programme in 2018, Marahare made the difficult decision to decline the offer. He emphasized the importance of avoiding any potential conflicts of interest due to his familial ties within the SIFF.

“My brother currently serves as the President of the Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF). Given this close familial relationship, I believe that accepting the position could potentially lead to a conflict of interest or, at the very least, create a perception of favouritism or bias,” he explained – Eddie is brother of the current SIFF president Donald Marahare, that was serving in the position since August, 2023.

Marahare underscored the necessity of maintaining trust and confidence in the decisions made within SIFF, ensuring they are beyond reproach. “It is paramount that the operations and decisions within SIFF remain beyond reproach and free from any suspicion of impropriety. By stepping aside, I hope to ensure that all decisions regarding the national team are made with the utmost objectivity and fairness, preserving the trust and confidence of our players, supporters, and stakeholders,” he stated.

Marahare remains committed to supporting the growth and success of football in the Solomon Islands in other capacities. He assured the soccer community of his continued dedication, saying, “I remain fully committed to supporting the Solomon Islands’ football community in other capacities and look forward to contributing to the sport’s growth and success in ways that do not pose ethical concerns.”

The Solomon Islands football community has responded positively to Marahare’s transparency and his dedication to ethical standards, even as they prepare to welcome Jacob Moli as the interim head coach for the OFC Nations Cup.

Moli’s appointment is seen as a strategic move, given his experience and familiarity with the national team setup. The upcoming OFC Nations Cup will be a crucial tournament for the Solomon Islands, and the nation looks forward to seeing their team perform under Moli’s guidance.

Marahare’s decision highlights the importance of ethical considerations in sports administration, setting a commendable example for others in similar positions. His commitment to the sport and his integrity in decision-making continue to earn him respect within the local community.