Oceania Football Center

Tahiti’s win casts shadow on Vanuatu’s slim hopes at OFC U-19 Championship

Tahiti clinched very important three points after edging Vanuatu 1-0 at the OFC U-19 Men’s Championship 2024 in Samoa. The victory, marked by Franck Papaura’s crucial goal, keeps Tahiti’s hopes alive in the tournament.

The match began with an early opportunity for Tahiti when a cross struck the hand of Vanuatu’s Jean Patriano Natou, resulting in a penalty just 12 minutes in. Unfortunately for Tahiti, Papaura’s spot kick sailed over the crossbar. Despite this miss, Papaura continued to pose a threat, later scuffing a shot wide after a ball was clipped across the 18-yard box.

Tahiti dominated the first half, with a notable free kick from Cedovan Taniel forcing a great low save from Vanuatu’s goalkeeper Joseph Nakou. However, the teams went into the break with the score still 0-0.

Vanuatu started the second half strongly, with Sergio Waoute leading a quick counterattack that tested Tahiti goalkeeper Keahinui Heinis. Waoute had another chance to put Vanuatu ahead but, after rounding Heinis, he could not compose himself and shot wide.

Tahiti and Vanuatu team captains Bennett and Maliwan battle for the ball – *OFC Media*

Desperate for a winning goal, Tahiti found their breakthrough. Papaura, a member of Tahiti’s senior national team that secured a bronze medal at the last OFC Nations Cup, latched onto a fine cross from Bradley Ruiz at the near post, steering his shot past Nakou to make it 1-0.

Papaura had a chance to double his tally but could only manage a shot directly at Nakou after being found free in the box following another cross.

The victory leaves Tahiti needing a result against the Solomon Islands to advance, while Vanuatu, with two defeats, find themselves in a precarious position. They now need a win against Fiji and must rely on other results going their way on Thursday to have any chance of progressing.

Solomon Islands soar with scintillating 3-0 triumph over Fiji in OFC U-19 Championship

Solomon Islands took a significant step towards securing a semi-final spot with a commanding 3-0 victory over Fiji in the OFC U-19 Men’s Championship 2024.

The stakes were high, with both teams aware that a win would put them on six points and on the path to the final four. The match began with intensity, as James Laena of the Solomon Islands had the first notable chance, but his shot flew over the crossbar due to an unfortunate bobble.

Jayroll Patty’s deflected shot soon after forced a save from Fiji’s goalkeeper Illisoni Koro, who parried it to Laena, but once again, the striker couldn’t convert. Laena continued to be a threat, breaking through the offside trap, only to send his shot straight at Koro.

Fiji’s first real opportunity came in the 21st minute when captain Penisoni Tirau went one-on-one with Solomon Islands’ Gideon Abidan, but he failed to chip it over the onrushing goalkeeper.

The Solomon Islands’ pressure finally paid off just before halftime. Billy Afi scored a beautiful free kick from the edge of the box, placing it perfectly into the bottom corner. The team doubled their lead just before the break, with Jimson Abana rising above two defenders to head the ball over Koro and into the net.

Solomon Islands players celebrate one of their goals – *OFC Media*

The second half saw the humid conditions slow the pace, allowing Fiji to find some footing in the match. Substitute Eparama Moraica provided a spark, creating a golden opportunity for Tirau, who laid it back to Moraica, only for him to miss from close range.

Solomon Islands sealed their emphatic victory in the 83rd minute when Abana scored a stunning scissor kick, his second goal of the match. This triumph places the Solomon Islands in a strong position heading into their final group stage match against Tahiti on Thursday. Fiji, on the other hand, will look to regroup for their final match against Vanuatu.

Vanuatu players receive significant bonuses for OFC Nations Cup historic performance

Vanuatu’s national football team players have received substantial financial rewards for their performance in the OFC Nations Cup. Each player was awarded VT190,000 for their efforts, as reported by the Vanuatu Daily Post. The value converted into US Dollars is around U$ 1.580.

“The Vanuatu Football Federation (VFF) confirmed the payment as a recognition of the players’ hard work and commitment during the competition,” stated the Vanuatu Daily Post. The bonuses are seen as a significant gesture to boost the morale and motivation of the team as they prepare for future tournaments. It was added that “the payments were sourced through the sponsorship from Prince Albert II of Monaco facilitated by the Ministry of Finance, and the Vanuatu Football Federation (VFF)“.

The financial reward was facilitated by the government, acknowledging the team’s impressive display at the Nations Cup. “The Minister of Youth and Sports, Honorable Tomker Netvunei, expressed his gratitude towards the players for their dedication and hard work,” noted the Vanuatu Daily Post.

Vanuatu players with their silver medals – *OFC Media*

The Vanuatu team had a commendable run in the OFC Nations Cup, making it to the semi-finals and showcasing their growing talent and competitive spirit. This achievement has been met with widespread praise, with the government and the VFF taking active steps to support and encourage the national team.

“This financial reward is a testament to the government’s and the federation’s commitment to developing football in Vanuatu and ensuring that the players’ efforts do not go unnoticed,” highlighted the Vanuatu Daily Post. The VFF’s decision to award these bonuses underscores their dedication to bolstering the national team’s morale as they look ahead to future competitions.

From Commitment to Departure: John Orobulu’s sudden switch from Southern United to Rewa

John Orobulu, the talented 23-year-old striker from the Solomon Islands, has made headlines with his unexpected decision to join Rewa FC in Fiji, despite previously stating his commitment to Southern United FC in the Telekom S-League.

Initially, Orobulu had communicated to Southern United’s president, Baddley Alaha, that he would not accept Rewa’s offer and would remain with the Solomon Islands club for the remainder of the season. However, contrary to his earlier declaration, the player changed his mind, moved to Fiji, and made his debut for the Delta Tigers in their 1-1 draw against Suva last weekend.

The release of Orobulu’s International Transfer Certificate (ITC) by the Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) facilitated his transfer to Rewa. This development came as a surprise to team president Alaha, who had been assured by the player of his continued commitment to Southern United. In a statement to Oceania Football Center, Alaha expressed his astonishment at Orobulu’s departure, revealing that the player had left Honiara unexpectedly to join the Fijian side.

John Orobulu training with Solomon Islands national team – *SIFF Media*

Oceania Football Center will seek further explanations from all parties involved to provide a comprehensive update on the situation. The reasons behind Orobulu’s change of heart remain unclear, and clarifications are needed to understand why the player left his former team after affirming his intention to stay.

Orobulu’s debut for Rewa has added a new chapter to his career, and his performance in the Digicel Fiji Premier League will be closely watched by Solomon Islands’ fans after his superb performances for both Southern United and Solomon Islands national team. As the story unfolds, further insights into the circumstances surrounding his transfer will be crucial in shedding light on this unexpected turn of events.

Solomon Islands’ Tigi Molea and Junior Fordney have immedite impact as Labasa beats Nadroga at Subrail Park

Labasa FC’s new additions from the Solomon Islands, Junior Fordney and Tigi Molea, made a remarkable debut in their 2-1 victory over Nadroga in the Digicel Fiji Premier League. The match saw both players making an immediate impact, showcasing their skills and contributing to Labasa’s strong position in the league.

Nadroga took an early lead with a goal from Stewart Toata, another talented player from the Solomon Islands. Toata’s goal in the first half set the stage for an exciting match. However, Labasa’s veteran player Christopher Wasasala leveled the score from the penalty spot in the second half, demonstrating his composure and experience.

The highlight of the match was Junior Fordney’s decisive goal, which secured the win for Labasa. Fordney, coming from Central Coast in the Telekom S-League, showed his quality by scoring the crucial second goal, which ultimately became the winner. His performance shows that Labasa’s management did it right to sign the player, having an immediate impact.

Tigi Molea, joining from Solomon Warriors, also had a solid debut, contributing to Labasa’s overall performance. The inclusion of these two players from the Solomon Islands has undoubtedly strengthened Labasa’s squad, as they now sit second in the Digicel Fiji Premier League ladder, in the race for the top that is now occupied by Rewa.

Another Solomon Islander signed recently for Labasa; the midfielder Atkin Kaua still didn’t debut for the Babasiga Lions, but he is expected to join the squad soon making him available for the upcoming team duties.

Papua New Guinea’s football community shocked due Lae City’s Walbo Komuna passing

The football community in Papua New Guinea is in mourning following the untimely passing of Lae City FC player Walbo Komuna on July 3rd. The 29-year-old full-back was a key figure in Lae City FC’s recent successes and was set to make his sixth consecutive season with the club.

Komuna’s death has led to an outpouring of grief from teammates and fans alike. Alwin Komolong, the captain of the Papua New Guinea national team and a defender based in Australia, expressed his sorrow on social media. Lae City FC also shared a heartfelt message on their social media platforms:

“Today the Lae City FC and its management is in great sorrow for the loss of one of its key players, the late Walbo Komuna who passed away earlier in the week. We would like to confirm that until the untimely passing away of Walbo Komuna, he was an integral team member of Lae City FC. Late Walbo played his final season with Lae City FC bowing out of the quarter final last season (2023). He joined the club in 2019 as a midfielder and pushed to the flanks then finally settling down holding the turf at the Lae City FC’s backline. Late Walbo rose to the occasion with Lae City FC participating in the 2020 OFC Qualifiers in Vanuatu then in 2022 OFC Qualifiers in New Zealand.”

Ronald Warisan, the captain of Lae City FC, also paid tribute to Komuna, highlighting his dedication and character:

“Late Walbo stood out amongst the rest to be different, staying away from drugs and alcohol and had little time to socialize with his peers. Knowing Walbo was in front of him at the goalmouth came down to trust and it all goes back to late Walbo’s humbleness and commitment to the team both on and off the field. He has been with us all throughout the fight, even when he was down. The reality of his absence has already sipped in and he is an asset to the team to be missed forever,” Warisan said.

Komuna in Lae City FC’s colours – *LCFC Media*

Komuna was not only known for his skills on the field but also for his leadership off it. From a mixed parentage of Nabak in Morobe and the Central province, he grew up at the University of Technology, eventually rising to captain the Unitech-based Sobou FC while playing for Lae City FC.

The loss of Walbo Komuna is deeply felt across the football community in Papua New Guinea, and his contributions to Lae City FC will be remembered for years to come.

New Zealand and Samoa dominate in Group B openers at OFC U-19 Men’s Championship

The OFC U-19 Men’s Championship continued in Apia, Samoa, with defending champions New Zealand and hosts Samoa securing impressive victories in their Group B debut matches. New Zealand showcased their dominance with a 3-0 win over New Caledonia, while Samoa celebrated a famous 3-1 triumph against Papua New Guinea.

In the first match of the day, New Zealand kicked off their Group B campaign with a commanding performance against New Caledonia. Auckland City attacker Stipe Ukich set the tone early, registering two shots on target. New Caledonia’s goalkeeper was initially up to the challenge, but their defense eventually succumbed to pressure.

New Zealand broke the deadlock in the 18th minute when New Caledonia defender Jythrim Upa was penalized for handball in the box. Ukich confidently converted the penalty, leaving goalkeeper Gabin Rachel helpless. Minutes later, Ukich found the net again, but the goal was disallowed due to a foul in the box.

The match saw some intense moments, including a dangerous tackle by Upa on Tze Xuan Loke, which resulted in a yellow card and Loke’s early exit due to an ankle injury. Ukich continued to torment New Caledonia’s defense, setting up Ryan Watson for a simple tap-in to double New Zealand’s lead.

Shortly after halftime, New Zealand extended their advantage to 3-0. Daniel Makowem delivered a precise cross to Keegan Kelly, who skillfully guided the ball past Rachel. Despite New Caledonia’s efforts to respond, including a near-miss by Joseph Hnaissilin, New Zealand maintained control and secured a comfortable victory.

Both teams now look forward to their next matches, with New Zealand set to face hosts Samoa, and New Caledonia taking on Papua New Guinea.

In the second match of the day, hosts Samoa delighted their fans with a 3-1 win over Papua New Guinea. Papua New Guinea had a golden opportunity to take the lead early on, but striker Johnson Belle missed a crucial chance from close range.

Samoa’s German-based striker Pharrell Trainor was a constant threat, but Papua New Guinea’s defense managed to keep him at bay for most of the first half. As the break approached, Samoa’s captain Trainor opened the scoring with a composed finish past Daniel Sakora. Trainor nearly doubled his tally moments later, but Sakora made a crucial save.

Samoa and New Zealand grabbed important wins at their debut in the tournament – *OFC Media*

Papua New Guinea responded with a counterattack, with Jason Goble-Lote’s effort denied by Samoa’s goalkeeper Joel Bartley. In the second half, Trainor struck again, dribbling past two defenders before slotting the ball into the bottom corner to make it 2-0.

Papua New Guinea quickly pulled one back through Nalau Moses, whose deflected shot found the back of the net. The match continued at a frenetic pace, with both teams creating chances. Samoa’s Juan Gobbi sealed the victory with a powerful shot past Sakora, and he nearly added a second in added time.

Samoa’s win sets up an intriguing clash with New Zealand, while Papua New Guinea will aim to bounce back against New Caledonia.

The second day of the OFC U-19 Men’s Championship showcased the talent and determination of the competing teams, promising more exciting matches to come as the tournament progresses.

Thrilling start to the OFC U-19 Men’s Championship in Samoa; Fiji and Solomon Islands grab debut wins

The OFC U-19 Men’s Championship launched in Apia, Samoa, with an electrifying opening day. Fiji achieved an impressive 3-1 comeback triumph over Tahiti, while the Solomon Islands secured a narrow 1-0 victory against Vanuatu.

Fiji orchestrated a stunning 3-1 turnaround to capture all three points against Tahiti in the tournament’s inaugural match. The 2022 runners-up faced a formidable Tahitian squad enhanced by players active in French local leagues.

A bright, sunny day in Samoa set the perfect scene for the competitive opener. Tahiti had the initial chance when Iliwai Resopawiro’s cross met Tahiarii Teriitemataua’s head, but the attempt was safely caught by Fiji’s goalkeeper, Illisoni Koro.

At the 15-minute mark, Fiji’s co-captain Penisoni Tirau had a golden opportunity, going one-on-one with Tahiti’s goalkeeper, but failed to score. Tahiti then took the lead through their captain, Kamalani Bennett, who expertly finished after receiving a precise through ball.

Despite Fiji’s dominance and multiple opportunities, they struggled to find the net. Tirau’s brilliant run past several Tahitian defenders set up Aidan Malakai Singh, who, unfortunately, missed the target. As half-time approached, Fiji was awarded a penalty after Tirau was fouled in the box. Tirau’s spot-kick struck the post.

In injury time, Fiji equalized when Akash Prasad capitalized on Tahiti’s defensive lapse. Tirau then put Fiji ahead with a spectacular long-range strike that bounced off the post, making it 2-1 at the interval.

Fiji continued their momentum in the second half, with Tirau again finding the net, lofting the ball over the goalkeeper. The scorching conditions saw the tempo drop, with fewer chances in the latter half. Late in the game, Bennett had a chance for Tahiti but was denied by a brilliant save from Koro.

Fiji’s win places them at the top of Group A, with a crucial game against the Solomon Islands next. Tahiti will aim to recover against Vanuatu in their second match on Monday.

In the day’s second fixture, the Solomon Islands kicked off their campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Vanuatu. Despite travel challenges, the Solomon Islands took an early lead within the first 20 minutes. Captain Paul Francis’s through ball found James Laena, who struck past goalkeeper Joseph Nakou.

Fiji and Solomon Islands started off with wins at U-19 OFC Men’s Championship – *OFC Media*

Laena posed a constant threat down Vanuatu’s left flank and nearly set up a second goal with a dangerous cross, but the defense managed to clear. Vanuatu struggled in the first half, epitomized by Sergio Waoute’s wayward long-range shot. The Solomon Islands dominated possession and shots on target, nearly doubling their lead when Laena missed just before half-time.

The second half was marred by injuries and players cramping under the intense heat. Vanuatu gained momentum towards the end, with substitute Jacky Numake’s speed causing problems, but he couldn’t convert. The Solomon Islands almost doubled their lead with Waoute’s curling effort narrowly missing the target.

In the final moments, Vanuatu’s Manuel Lorren received a second yellow card, leaving his team with ten men for the remaining added time. Lorren will miss their next match against Tahiti on Monday. The Solomon Islands’ victory gives them an ideal start, while Vanuatu will seek to bounce back on match day two.

Group B debuts on the second matchday, with New Zealand facing New Caledonia and Samoa hosting Papua New Guinea.

Sterling Vasconcellos to lead Fiji U19 at OFC U19 Championship

Sterling Vasconcellos, the talented Lautoka player, has been named captain of the Fiji U19 team for the upcoming OFC U19 Championship in Samoa. He will be supported by co-captain Penisoni Tirau from Ba. Vasconcellos, who represented Fiji in the 2023 FIFA U20 World Cup in Argentina, brings valuable experience to the squad. His leadership, coupled with Tirau’s support, is expected to be crucial in guiding the team.

Vasconcellos also has significant experience with the senior national team, having been a starter in the recently concluded OFC Nations Cup. His familiarity with high-pressure situations will be an asset as the Fiji Junior Bula Boys aim to qualify for the next FIFA U20 World Cup.

Penisoni Tirau and Sterling Vasconcellos – *Fiji FA*

Penisoni Tirau and Sterling Vasconcellos’s roles as co-captains will be pivotal for the team’s success in the tournament. The team is set to depart for Samoa tomorrow, with their first match scheduled against Tahiti on July 5 at 1pm. Best wishes to the co-captains and the entire team as they embark on this important campaign!

Kensi Tangis reflects on Vanuatu’s OFC Nations Cup journey and hints at his final chapter

Kensi Tangis, the 34-year-old striker from Fanafo, Santo Island in Vanuatu, is a celebrated figure in Vanuatu football. Currently playing for Galaxy FC in Port Vila, Tangis has been a cornerstone of the national team. As Vanuatu concluded their OFC Nations Cup campaign with a second-place finish, following a 3-0 loss to New Zealand, Tangis reflected on what might be his final international tournament.

In an exclusive interview with Oceania Football Center, Tangis shared his thoughts on the competition and his future aspirations. “The game against New Zealand is the best game because, you know, they are at a different level of football. I’m happy to play against them, and for the national team, for my country,” he said, acknowledging the challenging yet rewarding experience of facing such formidable opponents.

Kensi Tangis during the OFC Nations Cup grand final against New Zealand – *VFF Media*

Despite hinting that this tournament might mark his last appearance for the national team, Tangis expressed his desire for one final opportunity. “I think it might be my last national game, but I really want to join the national team for the last one in the World Cup qualifiers because I want to set a record again for my country,” he stated, highlighting his determination to contribute once more to Vanuatu’s football legacy.

Tangis’ journey with the national team has been one of dedication and passion, and his presence on the field will be missed if this indeed marks the end of his international career – despite the player still expects to be involved in the upcoming duties under the coached Juliano Schmeling-side. As the Vanuatu team looks ahead to future competitions, the legacy of players like Tangis will undoubtedly inspire the next generation of footballers in the island nation.