In a memorable debut match, Mosese Nabose, the 25-year-old full-back from Tailevu Naitasiri, showcased his talents in front of the fans at ANZ Stadium in Suva. Nabose played a crucial role in his team’s commanding 5-1 victory against Papua New Guinea in the OFC Nations Cup debut held in Suva.
Nabose’s inclusion in the starting lineup was a testament to his impressive performance and work ethic, as noted by Fiji’s coach, Robert Sherman. The coach had been closely monitoring Nabose’s progress and decided to give the young defender a chance to prove himself on the international stage.
During the match, Nabose was a standout performer, contributing both defensively and offensively. His energetic presence at the back helped stabilize the defense, preventing Papua New Guinea from mounting any significant comeback. Moreover, Nabose demonstrated his attacking prowess by assisting the fifth goal, delivering a smart through ball to captain Roy Krishna, who made no mistake in finding the back of the net.
Nabose (center) in his debut match against PNG – OFC Media
Nabose’s performance did not go unnoticed. The technical staff of Tailevu Naitasiri, his club, heaped praise on him for his solid display and crucial assist. Local fans also lauded Nabose’s efforts, celebrating his achievement and the promise he brings to Fijian football.
Looking ahead, Fiji is set to face Samoa in their next match on Wednesday, June 19th. With Nabose’s remarkable debut, expectations are high for another strong performance from the full-back, as Fiji aims to continue their winning streak in the OFC Nations Cup.
Fiji gave their fans plenty to cheer about following a dominant 5-1 victory over Papua New Guinea in their opening Group B match at the OFC Men’s Nations Cup in Suva. The home crowd at ANZ Stadium witnessed an electrifying performance from Rob Sherman’s side, who made an ideal start to their campaign and significantly boosted their hopes of qualifying for the semi-finals.
The action started swiftly, with Auckland City’s Nabil Begg breaking the deadlock less than two minutes into the game. Begg’s pace proved too much for the Papua New Guinea defense as he drove forward and lashed his effort high into the net, leaving goalkeeper Ronald Warisan with no chance.
Despite Tommy Semmy’s hard work upfront for Papua New Guinea, Warren Moon’s team struggled to test Fiji goalkeeper Isikeli Sevanaia throughout much of the first half. Fiji, on the other hand, continued to press, with Tevita Waranaivalu nearly doubling the lead in the 20th minute, firing just over from the edge of the area.
Fiji’s Thomas Dunn thought he had scored the second goal in the 27th minute, but his close-range effort was ruled out for offside. Defender Scott Wara then went close twice in quick succession with headers from Waranaivalu corners, but was denied by a goal line clearance and an acrobatic save from Warisan.
Fijian players celebrate one of their goals – OFC Media
The second goal finally came before half-time, with Begg again causing trouble for the Papua New Guinea defense. His deflected cross found Dunn, who nodded in from six yards out.
Dunn added a second goal just seven minutes into the second half, converting from close range as Papua New Guinea failed to pick him up following a low cross. Moments later, Setareki Hughes’ effort from the edge of the box took an unfortunate deflection off Alwin Komolong, wrong-footing Warisan and adding a fourth for Fiji.
Roy Krishna then got in on the action, finishing confidently after a through ball by Mosese Nabose, making it 5-0. Komolong almost redeemed himself in the 74th minute with a header that just missed the mark.
In the final moments of the game, Papua New Guinea managed to spoil Fiji’s clean sheet. Lee-Navu Faunt’s beautiful through ball found Tommy Semmy, who slotted the ball low into the bottom right corner of the goal.
Fiji will now face Samoa on Wednesday night, while Papua New Guinea will look to rebound against Tahiti earlier that same day. The victory sets a positive tone for Fiji’s campaign, giving their fans plenty of optimism for the matches ahead.
In a historic moment for Samoan football, Andrew Setefano has officially become the most capped player in the nation’s history. Setefano achieved this milestone during Samoa’s debut in the OFC Nations Cup, despite the team’s 2-0 defeat against Tahiti.
Setefano, who received his first call-up to the national team back in 2011, has now dedicated 13 years of service to Samoa. The 36-year-old defender has surpassed the legendary Desmond Fa’aiuaso, a historic figure in Samoan football, who previously held the record with 20 caps. Fa’aiuaso remains Samoa’s all-time top scorer, a testament to his impact on the game in Samoa.
In his international career, Setefano has now accumulated 21 caps, and his journey is far from over. With two more matches to play in the OFC Nations Cup against Fiji and Papua New Guinea, Setefano has the opportunity to further extend his record.
Known affectionately as the ‘Joker’ in Samoa, Setefano has earned a reputation for his versatility on the field. Although primarily a defender, he has been deployed in various positions by his coaches throughout his career, showcasing his adaptability and commitment to the team. This moniker highlights not only his skill but also his invaluable role in the national squad.
Andrew Setefano – OFC Media
Setefano’s club career has seen him play for several teams, most notably Hekari United from Papua New Guinea, where his performances have further solidified his standing as a seasoned and reliable player.
As Samoa continues its journey in the OFC Nations Cup, Andrew Setefano’s leadership and experience will undoubtedly be pivotal. His record-breaking achievement is not only a personal milestone but also a proud moment for Samoan football, inspiring future generations of players in the island nation.
Tahiti has made a strong start in the OFC Men’s Nations Cup 2024, securing a vital 2-0 win against Samoa in their debut match held in Suva. The Tahitian team, led by coach Samuel Garcia, displayed early dominance with two first-half goals, setting the pace for the rest of the match. The first breakthrough came swiftly, just four minutes into the game, when French-based Matéo Degrumelle skillfully intercepted a through ball from Manuarii Shan and managed to slip his shot under Samoan goalkeeper Joel Bartley’s grasp.
Degrumelle continued to be a formidable presence on the right flank for Tahiti, nearly assisting in a second goal shortly after. His cross to the back post found Shan, who unfortunately could not convert, sending his shot wide of the target.
The crucial second goal for Tahiti came not long after Degrumelle’s near-assist. Captain Teaonui Tehau capitalized on a cross from Eddy Kaspard that initially bypassed Ariiura Labaste, doubling Tahiti’s lead with a composed finish.
Samoa, despite the setback, began to find their footing towards the end of the first half. Greg Siamoa nearly reduced the deficit after executing a neat one-two to break free inside the box, only to be thwarted by a quick reaction from Tahitian goalkeeper François Decoret. Moments later, Dauntae Mariner’s powerful left-footed strike rattled the crossbar, narrowly missing the opportunity to bring Samoa back into the game.
Tehau (center) celebates his goal – FIFA+
The second half saw a noticeable decrease in pace and intensity, likely due to the hot and humid conditions in Suva. Despite the slowed tempo, Tahiti continued to seek opportunities to extend their lead but were unable to significantly challenge Bartley in Samoa’s goal.
With this victory, Tahiti secures an ideal start to their Nations Cup campaign. Meanwhile, Samoa will aim to bounce back in their next match on Wednesday, where they are set to face the co-hosts, Fiji.
In a surprising and controversial decision, Solomon Islands national team coach Jacob Moli opted to bench both prolific scorers John Orobulu and Gagame Feni in the first match of the OFC Nations Cup, which resulted in a disappointing 1-0 loss to Vanuatu. The decision raised eyebrows among fans, as both players have been instrumental in their recent club and national team successes.
John Orobulu, the Telekom S-League top scorer of the last season and the current second top scorer this season, has been a vital player for the Solomon Islands. He scored eight goals in the last Pacific Games held in Honiara, emerging as the top scorer of that tournament. Despite his impressive form, Orobulu was left on the bench until the 86th minute of the match. When he finally entered the field, he quickly made an impact by creating a real scoring opportunity, forcing Vanuatu’s goalkeeper Dgen Leo to make a crucial save.
Gagame Feni, another notable absentee from the starting lineup, has a commendable track record as well. He recently scored the only goals for his Solomon Warriors in the OFC Champions League and is a seasoned striker for the national team. Despite his proven ability to perform on big stages, Feni did not get any playing time in the match against Vanuatu.
The first half of the match saw a significant setback for the Solomon Islands when Alwin Hou, who was part of the starting front trio alongside Rafa Lea’i and Joses Nawo, left the pitch injured. In what many considered a questionable decision, coach Jacob Moli, who also serves as the head coach of Central Coast FC and is the interim coach of the national team, chose to replace Hou with Bobby Leslie, a player from his club Central Coast, rather than introducing one of the more experienced forwards, Orobulu or Feni.
The chosen front trio of Rafa Lea’i, Joses Nawo, and Alwin Hou struggled to create meaningful opportunities throughout the game. Their inability to break through Vanuatu’s defense and create clear scoring chances left the Solomon Islands trailing. The introduction of Orobulu came too late to turn the tide, and Feni remained on the bench, leaving fans and commentators questioning Moli’s strategic choices.
Gagame Feni and John Orobulu pictured
The loss to Vanuatu puts the Solomon Islands in a precarious position in the OFC Nations Cup. To keep their hopes of advancing to the semifinals alive, they now face the daunting task of having to beat New Zealand, a formidable opponent in the tournament. The pressure is mounting on Moli to reassess his strategy and possibly reconsider the roles of Orobulu and Feni in the upcoming matches.
The decisions made in this first match have sparked a debate about team selection and tactics. With the stakes higher than ever, the Solomon Islands national team and their fans are hoping for a turnaround in their fortunes as they prepare for their crucial match against New Zealand. The outcome of this game will determine their fate in the tournament and whether they can still contend for a place in the semifinals.
In a momentous match at Freshwater Stadium in Port Vila, Vanuatu, the national football team secured a historic 1-0 win against Solomon Islands. Central to this remarkable achievement were two defenders from Erakor Village: Brian Kaltak and Jason Thomas. Their outstanding performance not only fortified Vanuatu’s defense but also brought them closer to securing a spot in the semifinals of the OFC Nations Cup.
Brian Kaltak, the national team captain, was named Man of the Match for his stellar performance. He holds the distinction of being the only professional footballer from Vanuatu, having won the A-League twice in Australia. Kaltak’s professional experience and leadership on the field were evident throughout the match. His defensive prowess and ability to organize the backline played a crucial role in keeping the Solomon Islands’ attackers at bay. Kaltak’s journey from Erakor Village to international stardom has been inspirational, bringing immense pride to Vanuatu and serving as a role model for his teammates, particularly those like Jason Thomas who are looking to make their mark in international football.
Jason Thomas, who has played in various countries across the South Pacific, including Fiji and Papua New Guinea, recently returned to his roots at Erakor Golden Star in the PVFA Premier League. His experience and versatility were on full display as he partnered with Kaltak in defense.
Thomas and Kaltak pictured
The match against Solomon Islands was a tightly contested affair. Vanuatu’s defensive strategy, marshaled by Kaltak and Thomas, proved to be the cornerstone of their success. The pair’s communication and coordination were impeccable, thwarting numerous attacks and maintaining a clean sheet. The decisive moment came in the second half when Kensi Tangis capitalized on a set-piece opportunity, scoring the solitary goal that sent the home crowd into raptures and ensured a memorable win for the hosts. However, it was the relentless and disciplined defending by Kaltak and Thomas that laid the foundation for this triumph.
With this crucial victory, Vanuatu is now on the brink of securing a spot in the semifinals of the OFC Nations Cup. The win not only boosts their chances but also highlights the potential of Vanuatu football on the regional stage. Kaltak and Thomas’s performances have undoubtedly been instrumental in this journey, showcasing the talent and determination that exist within Erakor Village and beyond.
Vanuatu set off jubilant celebrations in Port Vila with a thrilling 1-0 victory over the Solomon Islands in the opening match of the OFC Nations Cup at Freshwater Stadium. The decisive goal came from Galaxy FC’s Kensi Tangis, who at 34 years of age, delivered a crucial header in the 72nd minute.
Both teams approached the match with heightened stakes, especially after New Caledonia’s withdrawal left Group A consisting of Vanuatu, Solomon Islands, and New Zealand. The coaches labeled the match a ‘Grand Final’ due to its potential to define their paths to the semi-finals. Defeat in this match could significantly diminish their chances, with New Zealand still to face.
The atmosphere in Port Vila was electric as 6,499 fans filled VFF Freshwater Stadium, with many more finding vantage points on rooftops and grassy hillsides. Vanuatu, buoyed by their enthusiastic supporters, started the match energetically. Johnathan Spokeyjack nearly opened the scoring early on, but his effort was thwarted by an exceptional double save from Solomon Islands’ goalkeeper Phillip Mango and defender Javin Wae.
Despite Vanuatu’s early pressure, the Solomon Islands gradually took control of the midfield, led by the skillful Atkin Kaua. However, they found it challenging to break down a resilient Vanuatu defense, anchored by Australian A-League champion Brian Kaltak. Vanuatu, despite being on the back foot, had the better chances before halftime with Bong Kalo and Godine Tenene both coming close to scoring.
Coach Juliano Schmeling’s halftime talk appeared to galvanize the Vanuatu side, who returned with renewed vigor. Alex Saniel narrowly missed the target with a powerful shot, and Kalo saw two of his attempts blocked. The breakthrough finally came in the 72nd minute when Kensi Tangis, having entered the match just four minutes earlier, headed home from a Tenene corner. The stadium erupted in celebration as Tangis, the team’s oldest player, marked a memorable moment in his career.
Vanuatu players celebrate Tangis’ goal – OFC Media
As the match drew to a close, the Solomon Islands pressed hard for an equalizer. Substitute John Orobulu had a promising opportunity, but his shot was comfortably saved by Dgen Leo, who secured his first clean sheet in goal for Vanuatu. The final whistle confirmed Vanuatu’s victory, putting them in a strong position for the semi-finals, while the Solomon Islands now face an uphill battle against New Zealand to keep their hopes alive.
Brian Kaltak was named man of the match for his defensive leadership, while goalkeeper Dgen Leo’s clean sheet was crucial in securing the win. Kensi Tangis’ timely goal underscored his value to the team, particularly in such high-stakes matches.
Vanuatu’s victory not only reignited their semi-final ambitions but also showcased the passion and potential of their footballing talent. The win was a historic moment for the team and their supporters, breaking a winless streak against their rivals that had lasted since 2017. As the tournament progresses, Vanuatu will look to build on this success, while the Solomon Islands must regroup and prepare for a critical clash with New Zealand.
In a commanding performance on Wednesday, June 12th, Alwin Komolong, captain of the Papua New Guinea national team, led Lions FC to a decisive 2-0 victory over Surfers Paradise Apollo in the Kappa Queensland Cup. This win secures Lions FC a coveted spot in the Australia Cup Round of 32. Komolong, who played as a starter in this crucial match, demonstrated exceptional leadership and experience helping Lions FC dominate their opponents.
The victory comes at a significant time for Komolong, as he is on the verge of traveling with his teammates from the Papua New Guinea national team, the Kapuls, to Fiji for the OFC Nations Cup. The Kapuls are currently preparing in Brisbane, aligning their training schedule with Komolong’s commitments to ensure he remains in peak condition for the upcoming tournament.
In Fiji, Komolong and the Kapuls will compete in Group B, facing tough opponents including the host nation Fiji, Samoa, and Tahiti. This tournament is a critical opportunity for Papua New Guinea to showcase their football talent on a regional stage, and Komolong’s recent performance with Lions FC bodes well for their prospects.
Komolong (center) celebrates one of his teams goals – Lions FC Media
As the captain, Komolong’s leadership will be pivotal for the Kapuls. His recent form and the confidence gained from the victory over Surfers Paradise Apollo will undoubtedly inspire his national team as they aim for success in the OFC Nations Cup.
After a long period sidelined due a serious knee injury, Komolong returned to football activities this year and is already slowly getting more game time with the well-known Brisbane-based side Lions FC. His experience in Australia will certainly be crucial for his as they aim for something big in the upcoming international tournament.
The much-anticipated opener of the OFC Nations Cup is set to be an electrifying encounter as Vanuatu’s Brian Kaltak goes head-to-head with the Solomon Islands’ rising star Raphael Lea’i. The match, taking place at Freshwater Stadium in Port Vila, promises to be a thrilling spectacle for football fans across the South Pacific. Vanuatu will undoubtedly relish the home advantage, with the passionate local crowd at Freshwater Stadium expected to be in full voice, providing unwavering support for their team. The atmosphere is set to be electric, adding an extra layer of excitement to what is already a highly anticipated match.
At the heart of Vanuatu’s defense stands Brian Kaltak, affectionately known as “The Brick Wall.” The 30-year-old captain has built a formidable reputation, being a two-time A-League champion with Central Coast Mariners. His experience, strength, and leadership make him a cornerstone of the Vanuatu team. Fans will be looking to him to marshal the defense and keep the Solomon Islands’ attack at bay. On the other side of the pitch, the Solomon Islands will pin their hopes on the youthful exuberance and talent of Raphael Lea’i. At just 20 years old, Lea’i has already made a name for himself with his blistering speed and exceptional skill on the ball. Having recently signed for Adelaide City in Australia’s National Premier Leagues (NPL), he is poised to be a significant threat to any defense he faces.This encounter is more than just a football match; it is a clash of contrasting styles and generations. Kaltak’s experience and defensive prowess will be put to the test against Lea’i’s youthful dynamism and attacking flair. The outcome of this duel could very well determine the direction of the match.
Brian Kaltak will take on Raphael Lea’i
As the match approaches, the excitement among fans is palpable. Who will emerge victorious in this tantalizing contest? Will Kaltak’s defensive mastery shut down Lea’i’s offensive brilliance, or will the young forward find a way past the seasoned defender?
The opening match of the OFC Nations Cup is set to be a memorable showdown between two of the South Pacific’s brightest football stars. As Vanuatu and the Solomon Islands prepare to lock horns, all eyes will be on Brian Kaltak and Raphael Lea’i. Whether it will be the seasoned defender or the young forward who steals the spotlight, this match is sure to be a thrilling start to the competition.
Lennard Atterwell, 18-year-old football prodigy, has recently been called up to represent Papua New Guinea in the OFC Nations Cup. Atterwell, who finished the season playing for Alcochetense’s U19 side in Portugal, is ready to make his mark on the international stage with the Kapuls. His journey to this point has been anything but conventional, marked by perseverance and dedication.
Reflecting on his early years, Atterwell shared, “I was everywhere in Brisbane, Queensland. Some would say I started quite late in under-10s at my local club in Queensland, Bayside United. After two seasons there, I joined another local club called Wynnum Wolves where I spent three seasons. After that, I joined a club a little further away from me, Rochdale Rovers, for another three seasons (U14, U15, U16/U18).” It was during his time with Rochdale Rovers that Atterwell’s potential began to shine. He was selected for the TSP Queensland program, Joey Talent ID, and also played for his high school, Iona College.
Atterwell’s commitment to his development saw him moving to the Gold Coast to join the Gold Coast Knights. “I was traveling 1hr 30min to 2 hours for training 3/4 times a week,” he explained. His dedication paid off when he was scouted and offered a scholarship at Escuela Huesca (EF Huesca) in Spain. “I spent one season there in the Juvenile B league while also training in a professional environment with CD Brea and the Juvenile A team.”
However, his journey in Europe was not without challenges. “I had many setbacks in Europe, one definitely being not having a European passport which affected me signing anywhere in Europe. At that time, I was only 16/17 years old, moving across the world away from family,” Atterwell recounted. After his first season in Spain, he decided to move to Portugal to finish his Juvenile season with Grupo Deportivo Alcochetense’s U19 national 2nd team.
Atterwell’s performance in Portugal was impressive. “The season was great; I learned a lot. I arrived in Portugal quite confident actually, and the quality there was great. My teammates tried teaching me here and there as well as my own studies. The season was good; it could’ve been better, but we stayed up in the National 2nd tier. I was progressing well, I was dominating in the U19 and was also training with the seniors at the club.” Alcochetense senior side plays the 4th tier of the Portuguese league’s system, while the U19 side, where Atterwell was mainly used, is in the second youth division.
Lennard Atterwell – Football Centre of Development
As for his future, Atterwell remains optimistic and focused. “I am a free agent. Mainly A-League NPL clubs wanted me to come down and assess me in their environment, so right now, I’m just looking at my options. Right now, I’m in Melbourne training with Western United seniors, doing my best to look or break into a senior team by this season, whether that’s in Europe or Australia.”
To represent Papua New Guinea is also a significant step for Atterwell – a country that he hasn’t visited for long: “I was back and forth until the age of 11, then I never went back,” he shared. Known for his speed and versatility, Atterwell primarily plays as a full-back but can be deployed in all positions along the right flank.
He credits much of his success to his mentor and manager, Kerwin Jean-Pierre. “Kerwin Jean-Pierre is my mentor and manager; he helped me throughout my whole footballing career since I was 11 to now.”
With the OFC Nations Cup on the horizon, Papua New Guinea is grouped alongside Samoa, Fiji, and Tahiti, with their games set to be played in Suva, Fiji. Should they advance, the semifinals will be held in Port Vila, Vanuatu, with a potential final to follow. Lennard Atterwell is poised and ready to contribute to the Kapuls’ success and continue his remarkable journey in football.
Oceania Football Center 