Oceania Football Center

PNG Football Association was unable to contact David Browne to call him up for Kapuls’ friendly matches

The PNG Football Association has encountered a major challenge in their efforts to reach out to David Browne, the country’s most prominent football figure. Despite being a former player for Auckland City FC and HJK Helsinki, Browne has exhibited a lack of responsiveness towards the Kapuls staff as they prepared for crucial international friendly matches against Singapore and Malaysia. Unfortunately, these matches didn’t fare well for Papua New Guinea, with the team suffering a record defeat of 10-0 against Malaysia.

Browne, who is currently a free agent, appears to have lost interest in representing his country. Despite being included in the provisional squad announced by the association, he did not make himself available for selection, nor did he respond to the calls made by the Kapuls staff. This decision has left many wondering about Browne’s commitment to continuing his international career with Papua New Guinea – or a choice made due the bad situation of the governing body in the country.

Given Browne’s stature as the country’s most high-profile footballer, his absence has been deeply felt. The Papua New Guinea Football Association had hoped that Browne’s experience and skills would contribute significantly to the team’s performance. However, with only three official matches played for the Kapuls, it appears that his dedication to representing his country has waned.

The inability to establish contact with Browne has raised concerns about the reasons behind his disinterest in national team duties. The PNG Football Association has been left in a difficult position, grappling with the absence of their most prominent player and the challenges it poses to their preparation and performance on the international stage.

For a long period Browne did not come to represent Papua New Guinea; first passport issues were raised as a response for his absence. Now, the PNG Football Association had included the winger in the provisional squad. The entity members were not sucesfull in reaching out the player; questions can be raised: is Browne interested to represent the Kapuls as the football in the country seems to be in darks days? How could the local federation be unable to establish minimal contact to its star player?

Donald Marahare ellected the new president of Solomon Islands Football Federation

Donald Marahare has been appointed as the new President of the Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF), following an elective congress held at the Heritage Park Hotel. This congress aimed to select a new executive team that will lead the mandate of football in the country for the next four years. The election was conducted by the SIFF Electoral Committee, led by Dr. Paul Mae, Benjamin Afuga, and Norman Vavaya, with representatives from the Solomon Islands Electoral Commission (SIEC) overseeing the process.

Marahare’s election as the SIFF President marks a significant transition in leadership, as he takes over from the former president, William Lai, who served for eight years. With this change, Marahare is entrusted with the responsibility of advancing the development of football in the Solomon Islands and steering the federation toward new achievements.

Alongside Marahare, three individuals were voted in as Vice Presidents: Tommy Mana from Makira/Ulawa Football Association (MUFA), Robert Seni from KOSSA FC, and Lyndon Bako from Isabel Football Association (IFA). Their collective experience and expertise will support Marahare in executing the federation’s vision and goals.

The election process was conducted in a transparent and democratic manner, adhering to the principles of good governance. FIFA’s Director of Member Associations for Asia and Oceania, Sanjeevan Balasingham, and FIFA Regional Development Manager, David Firisua, were present to oversee the proceedings, ensuring compliance with international standards.

As the newly appointed SIFF President, Marahare is expected to bring fresh ideas, leadership, and strategic planning to the federation. His role will involve promoting football at all levels, from grassroots development to elite competitions, while fostering partnerships and collaborations both domestically and internationally.

With Marahare’s presidency, there is optimism for the continued growth of football in the Solomon Islands. The sport has the potential to inspire and unite communities, provide opportunities for young players, and bring national pride through international competitions. Under Marahare’s leadership, the Solomon Islands Football Federation aims to achieve new milestones and contribute to the overall development of football in the region.

What will PNG Football Association do after international hummiliation?

The Papua New Guinea football fans watched incredulous the terrible defeat the Kapuls had suffered against Malaysia in the latest international friendly. The 10-0 result does not reflect the difference between both sides: Solomon Islands faced the same team days before and played a much better performance, falling by 4-1. Years back, in the golden era led by Danish head coach Flemming Serritslev, Papua New Guinea faced Malaysia twice: one away 2-1 defeat and a 2-0 home win. What had happened since then?

Despite winning the MSG Prime Minister Cup last year, many critics have arisen against the PNG Football Association management of the sport in the country. The last outing the national team had was last year, having the chance only now of exposing its football in friendly matches against Singapore and Malaysia.

The first match against Singapore, a 2-2 draw, may seem as a good result, but the performance of the Kapuls were not there. Differently from what happened to Solomon Islands who also draw against the same opposition – playing a much better footbal – , Papua New Guinea can be taken as the luckier side with goalkeeper Ronald Warisan saving the day for the national team.

Against Malaysia the fitness level, mental preparation and tactical organisation of the Papua New Guinean side was exposed: Ronald Warisan managed to make several stops until the deadlock was broken in the late stages of the first half. The second half told the story of the game as Malaysia only needed 36 minutes to score a total of nine goals. The 10-0 was the worst ever defeat suffered by the Kapuls.

Malaysia put 10 past PNG – *PNGFA Media*

The only thing the PNG Football Association did after the match was to inform the fans the final result. Since then, no words, no statements, nothing coming from the team staff, techinical direction or John Kapi-Natto himself, the PNGFA president.

The team selection was awful, not to mention. Some defenders of the current tenure at the PNGFA helm may say it: believe in the process! The question is: which process? The same players as always were there, part of the of golden generation from the OFC Nations Cup back in 2016 on its late 30s with a mix of unknown players and some recent standouts of Hekari United. Renovating the national team does not seem to be done in the proper way. There is no process going on.

Kolu Kepo, a well-known attacking midifielder through the South Pacific football community, was deployed as a central back by the head coach Harrison Kamake. Something that should not have even be thinkable was done. Some local fans can say Kolu is sometimes used as defender in local matches, but, to be honest, it is a total different situation. There were option for the central back position in the bench in both matches, as Joshua Talau or Ila Ani. Kepo, himself, was caught in positioning errors during both matches in many situations.

Structural changes need to be done rapidly, but the local federation does not seem to be worried. The same mistakes continue there. Just to mention blunders done in the recent months: the National Premier League, as the new national league will be called, was postponed three times already – coincidentally first when Hekari United, team historicaly managed by the current PNGFA president, was playing in the OFC Champions League and also more recently when a number of Hekari players were called up for national team duties. Back in January Papua New Guinea did not take part in the U17 OFC Championship. The reason is simple: the local federation missed the deadline to issue the team list to Oceania Football Confederation.

The terrible result against Malaysia was the last straw: some days ago Lae City FC, current champions of Papua New Guinea, decided to pull out of the upcoming National Premier League. Ian Chow, chairman of Lae City FC, told local newspapers that the main reason for leaving the national competition is the favouritism Hekari United has by the local football governing body. The same allegations were mentioned by national team players, local team owners and journalists interviewed by Oceania Football Center prior the writing of this article.

The 10-0 result in the international friendly seems to be little in comparison of the current situation of football in Papua New Guinea as mentioned above. The most populous member of the Oceania Football Confederation needs to do something in order to get out of this mess. The advice given is: if you are unable to make the necessary changes, step down, the hopes of a passionated-football country are on your back – deal wisely!

AS Tefana celebrates Ligue 1 VINI title in Tahiti

French

AS Tefana, hailing from the Fa’a village in Tahiti, celebrated a historic triumph in the Ligue 1 VINI, the highest level of football in Tahiti. The team’s long-awaited victory marked their return to the pinnacle of Tahitian football, a feat they had last accomplished in 2016. This significant achievement unfolded during an exhilarating encounter against AS Dragon, culminating in a resounding 5-0 victory at the iconic Stade Louis Ganivet, located in their home village of Fa’a.

The journey towards reclaiming the national league title was one filled with determination, hard work, and a renewed sense of purpose for AS Tefana. After their previous championship success, the team experienced a period of rebuilding, facing challenges and fluctuations in form. However, their unwavering commitment to excellence propelled them to rediscover their winning formula and emerge as a dominant force in Tahitian football once again. AS Tefana had to face a significant setback throught the season: the death of the player Keana Onuu in an motorcycle accident. The situation made the sucess of the 2022/23 season much more important for the Fa’a side.

As the climactic match against AS Dragon approached, anticipation and excitement reverberated throughout the Fa’a village. Fans, supporters, and residents came together, uniting under a shared passion for their beloved team. The Stade Louis Ganivet, steeped in history and memories, buzzed with anticipation, creating an electric atmosphere as the players took to the field.

As the final whistle blew, the Stade Louis Ganivet erupted in a symphony of triumph and celebration. AS Tefana’s players embraced one another, their faces beaming with pride and satisfaction. The victory not only signified their return to the pinnacle of Tahitian football but also symbolized the resilience and unwavering spirit of the Fa’a village, especially with the incident of Onuu’s case.

As the celebrations continued throughout Fa’a, the team reveled in their accomplishment, cherishing the moment of victory. Their return to the pinnacle of Tahitian football marked the dawn of a new era for AS Tefana, one filled with renewed hope, ambition, and the promise of more success to come. Despite the celebrations, the challenge continues for AS Tefana as they still have the Coupe de Polynesie to play this season.

Solomon Islands’ Jared Rongosulia colleted ‘Golden Boot’ award in Fiji FACT

Jared Rongosulia, talented Solomon Islands’ player, made a significant impact at the Fiji FACT tournament in 2023. Representing Navua, Rongosulia’s outstanding performance on the field earned him the prestigious Golden Boot Award. Despite Navua not reaching the finals stage of the tournament, Jared’s exceptional goal-scoring ability was recognized and celebrated.

The former Laugu, Kossa and Waneagu United man back in his country, at 27 years old, Rongosulia has already established himself as a key figure in Navua’s team. His contributions have been instrumental in their campaign during the current season. Throughout the Fiji FACT tournament, Jared displayed his skills, determination, and lethal finishing in front of the goal. With three goals to his name, Rongosulia emerged as the top goalscorer of the competition.

Rongosulia (right) receiving his award – *Fiji FA Media*

Rongosulia has represented his country and club with honor – he is former youth international former youth. His success in the Fiji FACT tournament will undoubtedly inspire aspiring footballers from the Solomon Islands and serve as an example of what can be achieved through skill, determination, and perseverance.

Moving forward, Jared Rongosulia’s career is poised for further growth and success. His Golden Boot triumph at the Fiji FACT tournament is a stepping stone to greater achievements, and he will undoubtedly continue to make waves in the South Pacific football.

Vanuatu’s win over Mongolia was the first-ever victory against a non-OFC opposition

Vanuatu made history in the world of football with a remarkable victory over Mongolia in the Intercontinental Cup, securing their first-ever win against a non-OFC (Oceania Football Confederation) team. After valiantly battling against Lebanon and India, but falling short, Vanuatu’s national team finally tasted victory in a momentous encounter against Mongolia, winning by a narrow margin of 1-0.

The Intercontinental Cup, held in India, served as the backdrop for this extraordinary achievement. Vanuatu had long been striving to make their mark in international football. Its last friendly match against a non-OFC opposition was back in 2019 when they lost to Indonesia by 6-0, having now a much better performance in the invitational tournament in India.

The match against Mongolia was laden with significance for Vanuatu, not only because it marked their first win against a team outside the OFC but also because it provided an opportunity to showcase their progress and determination on a global stage. The players were well aware of the importance of this encounter and displayed an exceptional level of commitment and skill throughout the game.

From the opening whistle, Vanuatu demonstrated their intent to control the proceedings. They showcased their technical prowess and played with a sense of purpose, pressing forward to create scoring opportunities. The team’s cohesion and unity were evident as they moved the ball fluidly, combining precise passing with intelligent movement off the ball.

Vanuatu’s persistence paid off in the second half when they finally broke the deadlock, after a Godine Tenene cross Mongolia’s defender Gantogtokh Gantuya put the ball in his own net. Goal that was enough for the South Pacific side to grab its historical win.

In the final moments of the match, Vanuatu showcased their defensive resilience, repelling any Mongolian attacks with composure and determination. The players exhibited unwavering focus and discipline to maintain their slender lead until the final whistle. As the referee signaled the end of the game, the Vanuatu team and their coaching staff celebrated the historic victory with unrestrained jubilation.

This triumph against Mongolia not only marked an important milestone for Vanuatu’s national team but also showcased the potential and talent that exists within their footballing community. The result served as a source of inspiration for aspiring young footballers in the country, reaffirming their belief in the pursuit of their dreams and the possibility of achieving success on the international stage.

Vanuatu’s journey in the Intercontinental Cup may have had its share of challenges, with defeats against Lebanon and India, but the win over Mongolia will forever be etched in the annals of the nation’s footballing history as a stepping stone for development. It stands as a testament progress of Vanuatu’s football and a source of immense pride for the people in the country.

Fijian international Scott Wara signs professional deal in Ireland

Fiji international defender Scott Wara has made a significant move in his football career by signing with Irish club Finn Harps FC. The official announcement was made by Finn Harps FC on their social media platforms, welcoming Wara to the team.

Wara, who hails from Lautoka, Fiji, gained valuable experience in English football as a product of the Stoke City academy. However, after leaving Stoke City, he most recently played for non-league side Leek Town.

At 23 years old, Wara has already represented Fiji at the international level. He has earned one cap for the Fiji national team and also featured for the U-23 side of Fiji in the Olympic Qualifiers in 2019.

Finn Harps FC competes in the League of Ireland First Division, which is the second-tier of football in Ireland. This move presents an exciting opportunity for Wara to further his career and showcase his skills in a new league and environment.

Joining Finn Harps FC will provide Wara with a platform to develop as a player and contribute to the team’s objectives. Additionally, his ultimate goal may be to reclaim his spot in the Fijian national team, using this new chapter in his career as a stepping stone towards that aspiration.

As he embarks on this new adventure with Finn Harps FC, Wara will be determined to make a positive impact on the pitch, contribute to the team’s success, and continue his personal growth as a professional footballer. The player will be available to debut after 1st July, when his transfer will be completed.

Vanuatu: Ifira Black Bird’s Boulet and Tasip to join powerhouse Auckland City

New Zealand’s powerhouse Auckland City FC and current OFC Champions League champions, have made significant moves for upcoming season. They have successfully secured the services of two talented Vanuatu internationals, Timothy Loic Boulet and Jordy Tasip, both of whom previously played for the Vanuatu club Ifira Black Bird FC.

The news of these transfers was officially announced on the social media page of Vanuatu media service company VBTC. The media company stated the players are set to join the New Zealand outfit by July if all process is done in time.

Both Timothy Loic Boulet and Jordy Tasip caught the attention of Auckland City FC through their impressive performances during the OFC Champions League 2023 competition. The duo showcased their skills, talent, and dedication on the field, leaving a lasting impact on both their opponents and scouts. Auckland City FC, recognizing their potential, wasted no time in securing their services for the new season. One Ifira Black Bird told to Oceania Football Center that the Navy Blues’ staff approached the players just before the semifinal clash between the both sides in the last edition of the OFC Champions League.

Timothy Loic Boulet, 24-years-old, is a Vanuatu international who possesses excellent defensive skills, being able to play both as central defender and wingback. Boulet has already represented Malampa Revivors before of his tenure in Ifira Black Bird.

Jordy Tasip, 22-years-old, is another talented Vanuatu international, brings versatility to the team with his ability to play in various positions upfront. He is known for his speed and skills on the ball. Tasip is a product of the traditional Tafea FC from Port Vila.

The signings of Timothy Loic Boulet and Jordy Tasip reflect Auckland City FC’s commitment to enhancing their squad and maintaining their position as one of the top clubs in the region. These acquisitions not only strengthen the team but also demonstrate the club’s willingness to tap into the talent pool in neighboring countries.

This is also great news for Vanuatu football as they show the development of players are paying dividends. Ifira Black Bird stated to VBTC that they are happy with the football development of the club and see its players are attracting interest from overseas.

Papua New Guinea: Lae City pulls out of next national league on disapproval of PNGFA mismanagement

The national champions of Papua New Guinea, Lae City FC, decided to pull out of the next edition National Premier League. The decision has been made due to the withdrawal of our sponsor, Lae Biscuit Company Ltd, who has been a pillar of support for the team since 2017.

Lae Biscuit Company Ltd entered the football arena with immense enthusiasm and has consistently shown their dedication to the sport. Their involvement in the code has been commendable, and they have contributed significantly to the development of the game in Papua New Guinea. Not only did they support Lae City FC, but they also sponsored the national team with a generous amount of K200,000.00 during the Pacific Games in Samoa back in 2019.

Throughout the partnership, Lae City, under the sponsorship of Lae Biscuit Company Ltd, has diligently fulfilled its financial obligations to the PNG Football Association (PNGFA). The company has consistently paid the club’s affiliation and registration fees, as well as other charges imposed by the PNGFA. The unwavering support of Lae Biscuit Company Ltd has been instrumental in our success on and off the field.

This announcement comes in the wake of the Papua New Guinea national team’s 10-0 defeat against Malaysia in an international friendly, which brought immense embarrassment to the country. The performance received heavy criticism from fans and local clubs, and it appears that Lae City’s owner, Ian Chow, is dissatisfied with the current management of the PNG Football Association.

In light of several postponements of the competition’s start date and other organizational challenges, Mr. Chow has decided to voice his discontent by withdrawing Lae City FC from the National Premier League.

Lae City FC has a rich history, having secured the Papua New Guinea National Soccer League title seven times and participating in numerous editions of the OFC Champions League.

The announcement is one more setback to PNG Football; the governing body will not count on its current champions for the next edition of the national league, something that may cause issues on rebuilding the league as the PNG Football Association intends to do so.

Humiliation: Papua New Guinea is completely demolished by Malaysia

This Tuesday (20th June), the Kapuls played their second international friendly in this FIFA window after a 2-2 draw against Singapore last week; this time they faced Malaysia at Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin Stadium. The outcome was just unbelievable for the Papua New Guinean football fans: after a 1-0 result in the first half in favour of the local side, Papua New Guinea conceded nine goals in the second half – a harsh 10-0 result was the final say.

Safawi Rasid scored the first for the locals at stoppage time in the first half after a silly penalty conceded by Hekari United’s Solomon Rani. The Papua New Guinean goalkeeper Ronald Warisan made impressive stops through the first half, denying Malaysia to score until the deadlock was broken.

The second half was tremendous for Malaysia, atrocious for the Kapuls: the Brazilian-born striker Paulo Josué scored at the 52th minute to double the lead- then, the downhill for Papua New Guinea had started: Arif Aiman scored his first in the game four minutes later. At the 59th Muhammad Faisal scored the third, one minute later Arif Aiman scored his second and Paulo Josué scored his second at the 64th and his hattrick at the 70th.

Daniel Ting, after a corner, scored the 8th for Malaysia and Arif Aiman, in the dying minutes of the game, added another two to his tally: 10-0 – the biggest ever registered defeat for the Papua New Guinea men’s national team.

Ronald Warisan tries to stop another Malaysian attempt

It was not expected from the Kapuls they could have a great game against a tough opposition such as Malaysia – who qualified for the 2024 Asian Cup edition. But, anyway, the scoreline represents much more than the gap between the two sides, but also the lack of preparation for the match and questionable team selection.

The first friendly against Singapore – 2-2 – gave hopes to the Kapuls‘ fans, although the performance was not there and goalkeeper Warisan made a number of stops to save Papua New Guinea from another defeat. Malaysia, a stronger team that Singapore – counting on several naturalised players posed a significant threat to the Kapuls, but the team coached by Harrison Kamake did not seem prepared to take this challenge and collapsed in the second half.