Oceania Football Center

New Zealand international Joe Champness returns to action with a debut goal in Turkey

After a challenging period of being without a club for nearly a year and a half, New Zealand international Joe Champness found a new home. The talented player’s journey took a positive turn as he signed with Adanaspor, a Turkish football club competing in the second tier. The signing marked a new chapter in Champness’ career, offering him an opportunity to reignite his passion for the game and showcase his skills on the field once again.

Champness made a remarkable entrance into his new team. In his debut match of the season against Boluspor, he left a lasting impression by scoring a goal that contributed to Adanaspor’s 2-0 away victory last Friday (11st August). This triumphant start not only showcased his footballing prowess but also signaled his intent to make a significant impact in his new surroundings.

Champness (right) celebrates – *5 Ocak Gazetesi*

Prior to joining Adanaspor, Joe Champness had experienced a stint with Giresunspor, another Turkish club, where he competed in the first-tier league. Despite his undeniable potential, circumstances led him to a period of uncertainty in his professional journey. However, his determination, dedication, and undying passion for the sport drove him to persevere and seek new opportunities to reignite his career. Champness left Giresunspor after only 13 matches played for the club due unpaid salaries; the attacker terminated the contract and proceeded with a FIFA Dispute Resolution claim. FIFA found in favour of Champness and awarded him €790,000 Euros (1.33 million New Zealand Dollars) plus interest.

JOWIC, as Champness is known in the music world, will be looking pave his way back to the All Whites. The player is known for having a break in his football career in the past in order to pursue a career in musical industry as a rapper. It was tought the player could had done the same after being for so long without competitive football, but he recently signed a new deal with Adanaspor, as mentioned, and already proved his capabilities to be a key figure in the battle for promotion to Turkey’s top-tier.

Brian Kaltak scores in penalty shootout, but Mariners bow out of FFA Cup in Australia

In a highly anticipated match that marked the beginning of the Australian football season, the Central Coast Mariners faced off against Sydney FC in the FFA Cup. One particular player stole the spotlight – the 29-year-old Vanuatu national team captain, Brian Kaltak. Returning from his homeland where he was celebrated as a national hero after leading the Mariners to victory in the previous A-League season, Kaltak’s presence on the field was eagerly awaited by fans and supporters alike.

Although he started the match on the bench, Kaltak’s impact was palpable as he came on as a substitute in the second half. With the Mariners trailing behind, Kaltak injected fresh energy and enthusiasm into the team’s performance. Central Mariners found themselves in a difficult position, but their resilience and determination never wavered.

As the match unfolded, the Central Mariners demonstrated their mettle. Bouncing back in the late stages of the game, they managed to claw their way to a commendable 2-2 draw against their formidable opponents. The crowd was electrified as Harrison Steele found the back of the net in extra time, giving the Mariners a tantalizing lead.

However, just when it seemed like victory was within reach, Sydney FC fought back valiantly with a late goal from Jaiden Kucharski, equalizing the score once again. The roller-coaster of emotions had only begun. The match eventually reached the dramatic climax of a penalty shootout, where the tension was palpable and every kick held the weight of the season’s hopes.

Brian Kaltak ready for his penalty kick – *CCM Media*

Brian Kaltak, the Vanuatu star, displayed nerves of steel as he confidently stepped up to take his penalty. With precision and determination, he found the back of the net, sending a resounding message to his teammates and the opposition alike. Unfortunately, despite Kaltak’s valiant effort and the collective determination of the Mariners, luck was not on their side. After a grueling penalty shootout that saw 19 penalties taken, the Mariners ultimately bowed out with a 10-9 defeat against Sydney FC.

While the FFA Cup journey might have ended in disappointment, the Central Coast Mariners now shift their focus to the upcoming A-League season, a competition they currently hold the title for. With Brian Kaltak’s leadership and experience, the team remains determined to defend their championship and continue making waves in the Australian football scene.

Furthermore, the Mariners have another avenue for redemption and glory. Having secured a spot in continental football as they will play the AFC Cup, they have a chance to prove their prowess on an even larger stage. The disappointment of the early FFA Cup elimination will undoubtedly serve as motivation for the team to excel and make their mark in both domestic and international competitions.

Season is over for Micah Lea’alafa in Australia

The conclusion of the season for Micah Lea’alafa‘s club, FK Beograd, in Australia has been bittersweet. The team displayed a strong performance in their last game of the regular season against Sturt Lions, securing a convincing 3-1 victory. Lea’alafa, the talented 32-year-old striker from the Solomon Islands, played a pivotal role in this crucial match as a starter, contributing to the team’s success with his skills and determination on the field.

Despite their triumphant last match, the overall outcome was not as favorable for FK Beograd. The other results from the final matchday did not align with their aspirations, and the club narrowly missed out on a spot in the NPL SA Final Series. The disappointment was magnified by the fact that they fell short of qualification by just a single point.

Micah Lea’alafa in action – *Active Illustrated*

Throughout the season, Lea’alafa emerged as a driving force for FK Beograd. His goal-scoring prowess was evident as he found the back of the net six times, showcasing his ability to create opportunities and capitalize on them.

However, despite Lea’alafa’s individual achievements and the team’s valiant efforts, the ultimate goal of securing a place in the postseason football in South Australia remained elusive. The disappointment of missing out on the NPL SA Final Series was a tough pill to swallow, especially considering the narrow margin by which they fell short.

As the season draws to a close, Beograd and its fans are left reflecting on the journey and the moments that led them to this point. While the outcome might not have aligned with their hopes, the club’s resilience, Lea’alafa’s contributions, and the dedication of the entire team have laid the foundation for future endeavors. The disappointment of missing the postseason by just one point will likely serve as motivation to strive for even greater success in the upcoming season.

Chronicles of PNG Football Chaos: Scheduling blunder adds to season of controversies in National Premier Soccer League

In yet another unfortunate incident, the Papua New Guinea Football Association (PNGFA) and the National Premier Soccer League (NPSL) board have once again displayed a lack of organization and professionalism, causing disruption and frustration for teams and fans alike. Gulf Komara, a team participating in the league, recently highlighted a blunder made by the NPSL/PNGFA office that resulted in a scheduling mishap.

Gulf Komara, through its official social media account, revealed that they were unable to board their intended flight to Lae for a scheduled match against Morobe Wawens FC. The reason cited was a booking error committed by the NPSL/PNGFA office. The team was erroneously booked to travel on Sunday, rather than the correct day, which was Saturday – the day the match was originally scheduled. This oversight not only reflects poorly on the administrative competence of the league organizers but also disrupts the overall flow of the tournament.

However, Gulf Komara later provided an update on the same post, indicating that the issue had been resolved, and they were now confirmed to travel to Lae on Sunday, August 12th. The match against Morobe Wawens FC was set to take place at 3 pm on the same day – the match ended up in a 1-1 draw at Sir Ignatius Kilage Stadium, Lae. Despite this glaring scheduling error and its subsequent rectification, neither the PNGFA nor the NPSL board issued any official statements or comments in response to the incident.

This mishap is unfortunately not an isolated incident within the context of the ongoing NPSL season. The league has been marred by a series of controversies and problems that have contributed to an overall sense of disarray. One notable instance was the controversial inclusion of defending champions Lae City FC, who lost their main sponsor mere weeks before the start of the tournament. This eleventh-hour decision to include a team raised questions about the fairness and transparency of the league’s decision-making processes. I an Chow, the former sponsor of Lae City, decided to pull out his support to the seven-time national champions due alleged unfair treatment of his team in favour of Hekari United, team linked to PNG Football Association’s president John Kappi-Nato. Lae City managed to get last-minute sponsor that kept them able to pay the fess requested to participate in the national league.

Gulf Komara squad at the airport – *Gulf Komara Media*

Furthermore, the start of the season was plagued by a number of delays, casting doubts on the league’s ability to maintain a structured and timely schedule. The lack of effective marketing and information dissemination surrounding the games added another layer of frustration for the local football community and fans, who found it difficult to keep track of fixtures and events.

These recurring issues reflect a systemic problem within the PNGFA and the NPSL board, raising concerns about their capacity to manage a professional football league effectively. The absence of prompt and transparent communication in response to blunders such as the scheduling mishap involving Gulf Komara only serves to exacerbate the frustrations of both teams and fans.

In order to restore credibility and promote the growth of football in Papua New Guinea, it is imperative for the league organizers to address these issues promptly, implement transparent decision-making processes, and enhance their organizational and communication capabilities. Only through such efforts can the NPSL hope to regain the trust of stakeholders and foster a more successful and harmonious footballing environment for all involved.

Kurukuru finishes participation at Continenal Futsal Championship with a harsh defeat to Mozambique

At the Continental Futsal Championship held in Bangkok, Thailand, the Solomon Islands national futsal team, faced off against Mozambique in a contest for the 5th place. Both teams had experienced a challenging journey through the tournament, finishing at the bottom of their respective groups during the group stage. The match was not only a battle for pride but also an opportunity for the Kurukuru to gather valuable experience and insights as they prepared for the upcoming OFC Futsal Nations Cup.

The Kurukuru entered the final match with hopes of redeeming themselves after a series of disappointing performances. Unfortunately, the match ended in another major upset as they were handed a crushing defeat by Mozambique with a staggering scoreline of 8-0. The game’s outcome was indicative of the challenges the Solomon Islands team faced, revealing areas in need of improvement as they looked ahead to the upcoming OFC Futsal Nations Cup.

Écan Castro emerged as the standout player for the African side, leaving a significant mark on the match by contributing four goals to Mozambique’s dominant victory. The first half of the match concluded with a disheartening 5-0 scoreline in favor of Mozambique, highlighting the Kurukuru‘s defensive and possession struggles.

Joaquim Jr and Mario Jr further compounded the Kurukuru’s woes by adding one goal each to Mozambique’s tally, cementing their team’s dominance on the court. Vasco Mahesse then dealt the final blow with two additional goals, solidifying Mozambique’s commanding victory with a final score of 8-0.

For the Kurukuru, the match was a harsh reminder of the challenges they faced in the international futsal arena. Despite the disappointing result, the experience gained from participating in the Continental Futsal Championship could serve as a valuable lesson for the team as they regrouped and prepared for the upcoming OFC Futsal Nations Cup.

As the final whistle blew and Mozambique celebrated their victory, the Kurukuru were left to reflect on the factors that contributed to their defeat. The road ahead would undoubtedly involve rigorous training, tactical adjustments, and a renewed determination to showcase their skills on the international stage. While the Continental Futsal Championship may have ended on a sour note for the Solomon Islands national futsal team, their journey was far from over, and their focus would now shift to the challenges and opportunities that lay ahead in the OFC Futsal Nations Cup.

William Komasi staggering goal seals the deal against Kossa as Central Coast climbs to the top of Telekom S-League

In a thrilling midweek clash, Central Coast emerged victorious in a showdown against Kossa FC, securing a 3-1 victory that propelled them to the top of the Telekom S-League standings. This encounter was eagerly anticipated after a week of postponed matches, and it certainly lived up to the excitement. As the action unfolded on the pitch over two consecutive days, football enthusiasts were treated to a rollercoaster of emotions, surprising turns, and standout performances.

The match kicked off with an unexpected twist as Kossa FC’s captain and Solomon Islands national team sensation, Joses Nawo, opened the scoreline, sending waves of excitement through the crowd. However, Central Coast’s determination was unwavering, and they quickly responded with a goal that showcased the prowess of their standout striker, Junior Fordney. With this goal, Fordney notched his 13th goal of the season, proving his remarkable talent and dedication on the field.

The intensity of the battle carried into the second half, where the teams continued to vie for control of the match. It was in the 66th minute that Central Coast’s Clifford Fafale managed to break the deadlock, driving his team into the lead. Fafale’s goal not only shifted the momentum of the match but also set the stage for a breathtaking finale that would leave fans on the edge of their seats.

The defining moment of the match arrived in spectacular fashion, courtesy of Solomon Islands national team midfielder William Komasi. With the game hanging in the balance, Komasi seized the opportunity to showcase his skill and precision. From long-range, he unleashed a mesmerizing free-kick that sailed through the air with uncanny accuracy. The ball found the back of the net, leaving spectators in awe of the sheer brilliance on display.

Komasi (center) celebrates his goal – *TSL Media*

The young striker Junior Fordney, who had been consistently making his mark throughout the season, once again proved his worth with his crucial goal. And then, William Komasi’s remarkable free-kick added an exclamation mark to their triumph, solidifying their claim to the top seat.

As the dust settles on these exhilarating matches, Central Coast stands proudly at the pinnacle of the Telekom S-League – its major goal of the season is to return to win the national league. With players like Junior Fordney and William Komasi leading the charge, the future looks bright for Central Coast as they continue their journey in the Solomon Islands’ top-tier football league.

Solomon Islands humbled by strong Thailand national team at Continental Futsal Championship

On Wednesday, August 9, 2023, the Bangkok Arena was buzzing with anticipation as the Continental Futsal Championship’s first round reached its climax. The matchup featured an intriguing clash between two teams with different fortunes in their opening games. Thailand, ranked 25th in the world and 3rd in Asia, had secured a comfortable victory with 3 points from a 5-0 win over Myanmar in their first match. On the other side, the Solomon Islands, ranked 60th globally, had suffered a 2-6 defeat at the hands of Myanmar in their tournament opener.

As the two teams took the pitch, it was evident that Thailand was determined to continue their winning streak. The Kurukuru found themselves facing an uphill battle right from the start. Thailand took the lead early on, courtesy of a well-placed shot from Pitchayut Kittipanuwong that was deflectedof Clifford Misitana putting the ball into his own net.

Peerapat Kaewsaithong, a key player for Thailand, soon made his mark on the game. He netted the second goal with a brilliant display of skill, weaving through defenders on the right edge before launching a precise shot. With this stunning effort, Thaland surged ahead 2-0. Sarawut Phalaphruek, the captain of the Thai team, then capitalized on a goal-scoring opportunity, widening the gap to 3-0. Pitchayut Kittipanuwong added another a few moments later to make it four for the home side.

Despite the early onslaught from the Thai team, the Solomon Islands displayed their fighting spirit. Ellis Mana managed to break through Thailand’s defense and find the back of the net, reducing the deficit to 1-4. The first half concluded with this scoreline, providing a glimmer of hope for the Solomon Islands.

Thailand players celebrate one of it goals – *Thailand Post*

The second half witnessed a continuation of Thailand’s dominance. Alongkorn Chanphon netted the fifth goal for his team, and Panut Kittipanuwong swiftly followed suit, extending the lead to 6-1. Peerapat Kaewsaithong showcased his prowess once again, converting a powerful strike to make it 7-1.

The Thai futsal team continued their relentless attack, demonstrating both individual brilliance and coordinated teamwork. Alongkorn Chanphon secured his second goal of the match, while Worasak Srirangpairoj contributed to the goal tally as well addind the 9th goal. Alongkorn Chanphon completed his hattrick by scoring the tenth and final goal of the match, sealing a comprehensive victory for Thailand with a final scoreline of 10-1.

The defeat meant that the Solomon Islands’ journey in the tournament came to a premature end. With no chance of emerging as champions, they were left with one final match against the 3rd placed team from Group B. This tournament served as valuable preparation for the OFC Futsal Nations Cup, scheduled for October and hosted in New Zealand. The Solomon Islands, along with other participating teams, aimto secure a spot at the 2024 FIFA Futsal World Cup, making their efforts on the futsal court significant steps toward their larger goals.

New Zealand rising star Ben Waine scores a brace in English Carabao Cup

In a thrilling Carabao Cup first-round match, Plymouth Argyle showcased their prowess as they secured a commanding 2-0 victory against Leyton Orient. One name stood out among the rest – Ben Waine, the New Zealand international, who stole the limelight with his stellar performance.

Fresh off their triumphant return to the EFL Championship after clinching the EFL League One title, Plymouth Argyle entered the Carabao Cup with renewed determination. The spotlight was on their young striker, Ben Waine, who had already debuted at EFL Championship opener against Huddersfield Town as a substitute, contributing to the team’s impressive 3-1 victory.

However, it was in the Carabao Cup clash against Leyton Orient where Waine truly flourished. The game began with a high tempo, and it was clear that Waine was eager to make his mark. The young striker showcased his innate goal-scoring ability, finding the back of the net twice in the first half. His clinical finishing and intelligent positioning left Leyton Orient’s defense struggling to contain him. The Plymouth faithful erupted in celebration as Waine’s goals gave his team a commanding lead.

But Waine’s impact didn’t stop there. His hunger for success and determination to excel propelled him even further. The former Wellington Phoenix man managed to find the net again, sending the crowd into a frenzy. Unfortunately, this time his efforts were in vain, as the goal was disallowed due to a minute offside call. Despite the disappointment, Waine’s performance continued to earn him admiration from fans.

Ben Waine celebrates one of his goal – *PAFC Media*

As the match concluded, it was evident that Ben Waine’s standout performance had not only secured Plymouth Argyle’s victory but also earned him the well-deserved title of ‘Man of the Match’. Waine’s incredible display highlighted his potential as a formidable asset for Argyle’s future endeavors.

Nicknamed “The Waine Train,” this young striker’s journey is just beginning, and he is proving that he can be an industrious force on the field. With his consistent efforts and standout performances, Waine is slowly carving his path to Argyle’s starting eleven and proving his worth in the English football scenario. As the “choo-choo” of the Waine Train resonates through the stands, it’s clear that Ben Waine’s career is heading into an exciting direction, and fans of Plymouth Argyle have much to look forward to.

New Zealand international Alex Greive nets the winner for St Mirren in Scottish Premiership season opener

In a thrilling and high-octane Scottish Premiership season opener, St Mirren clashed with Hibernian in a captivating match that left fans on the edge of their seats. The encounter proved to be an exhilarating display of skill, determination, and sheer footballing magic. Amidst the rain-soaked pitch and roaring crowd, it was a moment of individual brilliance from New Zealand international Alex Greive that etched itself into the annals of St Mirren’s history.

From the first whistle, it was evident that both teams were determined to stake their claim in the new season. The atmosphere in Edinburgh was electric as fans from both sides gathered to witness the clash of titans. St Mirren wasted no time in asserting their intentions as they managed to secure an early lead. Mark O’Hara stepped up to the penalty spot in the 15th minute, displaying nerves of steel as he confidently slotted the ball into the back of the net. This was quickly followed by a sensational strike from Toyosi Olusanya in the 17th minute, leaving the Hibernian defense stunned and the scoreboard reading 2-0 in favor of St Mirren.

However, Hibernian showed their resilience and fighting spirit, refusing to be deterred by the early setback. Adam Le Fondre, demonstrated his clinical finishing ability by finding the back of the net, pulling a goal back for Hibernian. The momentum continued to swing in Hibernian’s favor as Christian Doidge levelled the score at 2-2. The game was finely poised, with both teams hungry for victory.

As the clock ticked down and tension reached its peak, St Mirren’s manager made a tactical masterstroke. He decided to introduce Alex Greive into the fray, sending the 24-year-old striker onto the pitch as a substitute. Little did anyone know that this substitution would prove to be the decisive turning point of the match.

Alex Greive celebrates his goal – *St Mirren Media*

The rain-soaked pitch reflected the intensity of the battle as the 89th minute approached. With the game hanging in the balance, Greive showcased his goalscoring class as he netted the winner for his side close to regulation time.

The St Mirren faithful erupted in jubilation, their cheers echoing throughout the stadium. The scoreline now stood at 3-2 in favor of the visitors, and as the final whistle blew, the cheers turned into a chorus of celebration. Alex Greive’s heroics had secured a hard-fought victory for his team in the most dramatic fashion.

The first match of the Scottish Premiership season had lived up to its billing, providing fans with an unforgettable spectacle of footballing drama. In the midst of this thrilling encounter, it was the All Whites representative Alex Greive who emerged as the match-winner, etching his name into the hearts of St Mirren supporters.

Trina Davis of Fiji Women’s National team to showcase skills in Wellington Phoenix

In a significant development that highlights the growing recognition of Fijian football worldwide, Trina Davis, a standout player from th Fiji Kulas team, is poised to undergo trials with the Wellington Phoenix Football Club in New Zealand. Trina’s captivating performances on the field have garnered attention from football enthusiasts, propelling her into a trial stint that is not only a personal achievement but also a testament to the potential of Fijian football on the global stage. Alongside Davis, another Fijian women’s talent, the youngster Angeline Rekha member of the U-19 national team, is set for trials with the Phoenix in the upcoming weeks.

Hailing from the United States, Trina Davis has consistently showcased her determination and exceptional skills as a key player in the national team squad. This upcoming trial stint with Wellington Phoenix marks a significant chapter in her football journey. While this isn’t her first experience in professional football, Trina expresses her thrill and deep honor at the opportunity to demonstrate her capabilities at a respected club like Wellington Phoenix. She sees this chance as a reflection of her efforts and a validation of the promise that Fijian football holds.

At the age of 21, Trina’s trajectory in professional football began in 2021 when she signed a contract with the Israeli club ASA Tel Aviv. Subsequently, she further solidified her career path by joining Puerto Rico Sol FC in the Superior Femenino de la Liga Puerto Rico, the top-tier women’s football league. Her journey follows the footsteps of another Fijian trailblazer, Roy Krishna, who made an impact as the captain of the Fiji National Team and enjoyed a successful tenure with Wellington Phoenix.

Looking ahead to the Wellington Phoenix trial, Trina anticipates an environment of dynamic and fast-paced game. Despite the challenge that lies ahead, she eagerly anticipates the opportunity to be part of a team again after her recovery from an injury last year. Reflecting on her strengths and areas for growth, Trina identifies her speed, strength, strategic off-ball movements, and precise crosses as her key assets. She embraces constructive criticism as a means to improve her skills and contribute effectively to the team.

In the midst of these trials, Trina extends advice to fellow players who are considering similar opportunities. She urges them to seize these chances for valuable experience and exposure, encouraging them to contribute to the growth of Fijian football.

Adding to the narrative, Trina’s teammates Cema Nasau and captain Sofi Diyalowai are concluding their tenure with the Orlando Pride, a prominent team in the National Women’s Soccer League in the United States.

Mohammed Yusuf, CEO of the Fiji Football Association, expresses his pride in yet another national team player venturing into trials. He sees Trina’s journey as an inspiration for aspiring footballers who dream of international play, with each trial contributing to the advancement of Fijian football and a brighter sporting future for the country.

It’s important to note that these trials have been made possible through funding from the Oceania Football Confederation, highlighting the collaborative efforts that support the growth and development of football talent in the region.