Oceania Football Center

Defending champions Suva bows out of Fiji FACT in group stage

The defending champions of the Fiji FACT, Suva, were unable to defend their title as they bowed out of the prestigious tournament in the group stage. The team faced an uphill battle from the start, and despite their best efforts, they fell short in their quest to retain the championship.

Suva’s campaign got off to a disappointing start with a narrow 1-0 defeat to Lautoka in their opening match. The loss put them in a difficult position, and they knew they had to bounce back quickly to keep their hopes alive. However, their next match against Ba proved to be equally challenging, and Suva suffered another defeat, this time by a score of 2-1, confirming their elimination.

One of the key factors contributing to Suva’s struggles in the tournament was the absence of several crucial players. The trio composed of Marlon Tahioa, Azariah Soromon, and Alex Saniel, were all away on international duties for Solomon Islands and Vanuatu, respectively. Their absence significantly weakened Suva’s squad, as these players had been instrumental in their previous successes. Additionally, Simione Nabenu and Remueru Tekiate were also missing from the lineup, further exacerbating Suva’s depth issues.

Despite the odds stacked against them, Suva refused to go down without a fight. In their final group stage match against Navua, they displayed their resilience and determination, securing a convincing 4-1 victory. However, it was too little, too late. With the earlier defeats weighing them down, Suva’s fate had already been sealed, and they were knocked out of the tournament before reaching the knockout stages.

Suva squad before match against Navua – *Fiji FA Media*

The disappointment of their early exit from the Fiji FACT was softened by Suva’s recent success in the OFC Champions League, where they finished as runners-up. The fans recognized that the absence of key players during the Fiji FACT had a significant impact on the team’s performance. The depth of the squad was stretched thin, making it difficult for Suva to compete at the same level as they had in previous seasons.

As Suva looks ahead to future competitions, they will undoubtedly aim to regroup and strengthen their squad. With the return of their missing players and a renewed sense of determination, Suva will strive to reclaim their position as one of Fiji’s top football clubs and aim for more success in both domestic and international tournaments.

Vanuatu’s John Wohale celebrates his first goal for the national team

In the recent clash between Vanuatu and Lebanon, midfielder John Wohale scored his first goal for the Vanuatu national team. Despite the team’s 3-1 defeat, Wohale’s performance was a bright spot, reflecting his growing prominence as a player. The 25-year-old midfielder, who plays for Ifira Black Bird, entered the match in high spirits following his significant contributions in the OFC Champions League.

Ifira Black Bird had an impressive run in the Champions League, reaching the semifinals before being eliminated by the formidable Auckland City in a thrilling penalty shootout. Throughout the tournament, Wohale showcased his skills and played a crucial role in his team’s success. His exceptional performances caught the attention of the national team selectors, earning him a spot in the starting lineup for Vanuatu’s first challenge in the Intercontinental Cup, held in India.

It was during this match against Lebanon that Wohale made a memorable impact. Despite the eventual defeat, he seized the opportunity to make his mark on the international stage: Wohale found the back of the net for the first time while representing his country. He took his chances after a rebound of the goalkeeper and then leveled the game for Vanuatu.

Scoring a goal for the national team is a milestone moment for any player, and Wohale’s achievement will undoubtedly be etched in his memory. It serves as a testament to his talent and potential, and it further solidifies his position as an emerging star in Vanuatu football.

The fans of Vanuatu football have reason to be excited about Wohale’s development. His goal-scoring ability, combined with his technical abilities and versatility in the midfield, make him a valuable asset for both club and country. As he continues to hone his skills and gain experience at higher levels of competition, Wohale has the potential to become a symbol of pride for Vanuatu football and a source of inspiration for aspiring young players in the nation.

Vanuatu valiant efforts fell short to stronger Lebanon in Intercontinental Cup debut in India

In their first match at the Intercontinental Cup, the Vanuatu national football team faced a tough challenge against Lebanon. Despite the Middle Eastern team being ranked 65 positions above Vanuatu, the underdogs put up a valiant effort against their more formidable opponents. Coached by Etienne Mermer, the Vanuatu side demonstrated determination and resilience throughout the game.

The first half of the match ended in a goalless draw, with Vanuatu’s captain, Brian Kaltak, leading the defensive line admirably. Goalkeeper Massing Kalotang made some crucial saves, frustrating the Lebanese attackers and keeping his team in the game. The Vanuatu defense, with Kaltak at the helm, successfully kept Lebanon at bay, denying them any clear scoring opportunities.

It was in the second half when the goals started to flow – as Kaltak was subbed off giving place to Ifira’s Jean-Pierre Taussi, possibly due the fatigue he was imposed in the final A-League run, also certainly making Vanuatu’s back line weaker.

Lebanon broke the deadlock through a set-piece play, allowing Nader Matar to volley the ball into the net and put his team in the lead. However, Vanuatu responded swiftly. Just three minutes later, Jonathan Spokeyjack was fouled near the box, leading to a free-kick opportunity for Vanuatu. Jean-Pierre Taussi stepped up to take the free-kick, and although the Lebanese goalkeeper managed to punch the ball away, the rebound fell to John Wohale of Ifira Black Bird, who made no mistake in equalizing the match.

Standing: Alex Saniel, Lee Taiwia, Jason Thomas, Michel Coulon, Timothy Boulet and Brian Kaltak.
Crouching: Godine Tenene, Jonathan Spokeyjack, Massing Kalotang, Azariah Soromon and John Wohale

Vanuatu’s spirited display continued, and they managed to hold Lebanon at bay for an additional ten minutes. However, a defensive lapse during another set-piece allowed Hassan Maatouk to find Hassan Kourani unmarked in the penalty box. Kourani headed the ball past Kalotang, giving Lebanon the lead once again.

In the dying minutes of the game, Vanuatu’s fatigue started to show, and they conceded a penalty when Jason Thomas fouled Karim Darwiche inside the box. Darwiche confidently converted the penalty kick, extending Lebanon’s lead and securing a 3-1 victory for his team.

Despite the defeat, Vanuatu’s performance was commendable. They managed to hold their own against a significantly stronger opponent, and the scoreline reflected a respectable outcome. However, as the game progressed, fatigue seemed to affect the Vanuatu side, particularly in the final 20 minutes, where they struggled to create further scoring opportunities.

Vanuatu’s journey in the Intercontinental Cup continues as they face India in their next match, scheduled for Monday. The team will undoubtedly be looking to build on their positive aspects from the match against Lebanon and aim for a better result in their upcoming fixture.

Suva: Remueru Tekiate to miss Fiji FACT

Defender Remueru Tekiate‘s unfortunate appendectomy has dealt a significant blow to Suva’s preparations for the upcoming Fiji FACT tournament. The 32-year-old player, who has represented Fiji 32 times and scored two goals for the national team, will be forced to miss the competition. Tekiate’s absence adds to the list of players unavailable for the Suva squad, making him the fifth player ruled out of the tournament.

Prior to Tekiate, Suva had already suffered setbacks with the unavailability of four other key players. Alex Saniel, Azariah Soromon, Simione Nabenu, and Marlon Tahioa were all unable to participate in the Fiji FACT tournament due to various reasons. Their absence leaves Suva with a challenging task to defend their title as the reigning champions.

Despite these setbacks, Suva’s coach, Babs Khan, remains confident in the depth of his squad. Khan believes that the team possesses the necessary talent and resilience to overcome these hurdles and perform well in the tournament. The coach will now have to rely on the remaining players to step up and fill the void left by the missing individuals.

Remueru Tekiate’s absence will certainly be felt by Suva, as he had played a vital role in the team’s recent success. He was an integral part of the squad that reached the grand final match of the OFC Champions League, showcasing his defensive skills and contributing to the team’s overall performance. His experience and leadership qualities will be missed, especially during high-stakes matches in the Fiji FACT tournament.

As the defending champions, Suva will have to fight hard to retain their title without Tekiate and the other injured or unavailable players. The tournament will test the team’s depth and resilience, but with the guidance of coach Babs Khan and the remaining talented players, Suva will aim to overcome these challenges and make a strong impression in the competition.

Australia-based Jared Clark and Mitch Cooper missing in Vanuatu’s squad for international fixtures

The omission of Mitch Cooper of Hume City and Jared Clark of FK Beograd from the Vanuatu national team’s Intercontinental Cup squad has raised eyebrows and sparked questions about the reasoning behind their exclusion. The national team, led by coach Etienne Mermer, is set to face Lebanon, India, and Mongolia in what presents a great opportunity for exposure against national teams from the Asian continent. However, the absence of these two talented players from the squad means that Vanuatu will not be heading into these matches with their full force.

Mitch Cooper, an attacking midfielder with experience in the A-League, has been a crucial contributor for Vanuatu in recent matches. With an impressive tally of five goals in seven appearances for his country, his exclusion from the Intercontinental Cup squad is surprising. Cooper’s ability to create chances and find the back of the net would undoubtedly be missed by Vanuatu against tough opposition.

Similarly, Jared Clark, a central defender who has been actively involved with NPL SA’s Beograd, has also been left out of the squad. Despite making his full debut for Vanuatu last year in a friendly against Fiji. Clark, in conversation with Oceania Football Center, stated that he was not contacted by the Vanuatu Football Federation regarding his call-up for the three upcoming friendly matches.

While the exact reasons for their exclusion remain unclear, it is crucial for the Vanuatu Football Federation to address these concerns and provide public explanations. The fans, who have witnessed the impact and contributions of Cooper and Clark in previous matches, are left wondering why such key individuals have been overlooked.

The absence of these two talented players undoubtedly weakens Vanuatu’s squad for the upcoming matches. However, it also opens up an opportunity for other players to step up and prove their worth on the international stage. As Vanuatu faces tough opposition in the form of national teams from the Asian continent, the squad will need to rally together and make the most of the opportunities at hand..

Telekom S-League: Central Coast ends Hoaniara City’s unbeaten run with a commanding win

In a thrilling match that took place this past weekend at Lawson Tama Stadium, Central Coast secured an impressive 5-1 victory over Honiara City in the highly competitive Telekom S-League. This remarkable performance propelled Central Coast momentarily to the top of the league table, surpassing Honiara City and halting their impressive winning streak. Honiara City, led by the renowned coach Jerry Allen, suffered their first defeat of the season after an undefeated run spanning four matches.

Central Coast started the match with great determination, displaying their attacking prowess early on. David Supa, Thomas Amasia, and Clifford Fafale scored three fantastic goals, granting Central Coast a comfortable 3-0 lead at halftime. Their clinical finishing and offensive efficiency showcased the team’s immense talent and ability to dominate the game.

In the second half, Honiara City fought back with determination, hoping to reduce the deficit. Erick Houanikana managed to find the back of the net, providing a glimmer of hope for his team. However, despite their efforts, Honiara City struggled to break through Central Coast’s defense consistently.

As the match drew to a close, it was Central Coast’s gifted striker, Junior Fordney, who stole the show. Fordney netted two late goals, solidifying Central Coast’s commanding victory and sealing a memorable 5-1 win. His clinical finishing and ability to score crucial goals underscored his importance to the team and his status as a rising star in the league.

Central Coast’s victory not only propelled them to the top of the table but also solidified their reputation as strong contenders for the Telekom S-League championship. Their impressive performance showcased their tactical acumen, offensive firepower, and defensive solidity. As former champions of the league, Central Coast is determined to reclaim their title and prove themselves as one of the strongest sides in the Solomon Islands.

Despite the defeat, Honiara City’s four-match unbeaten run prior to this encounter demonstrated their potential to challenge the top teams in the league. Coach Jerry Allen’s influence and tactical expertise have undoubtedly played a significant role in their success thus far. Honiara City will aim to bounce back from this setback and continue their momentum in the league, hoping to challenge the likes of Solomon Warriors and Waneagu United.

The Telekom S-League promises to be an enthralling competition with several top teams vying for supremacy. Central Coast’s dominant victory against Honiara City has firmly established them as strong contenders, but the unpredictable nature of football means that anything can happen as the season progresses. Fans and spectators eagerly anticipate the upcoming matches as the battle for the league title intensifies.

Tahunipue and Sipakana left out of Solomon Islands national team squad for international friendly matches

The Solomon Islands national team has recently announced its squad list for the upcoming friendly matches against Malaysia and Singapore this June. Notably absent from the roster are Prince Tahunipue of Central Coast and Jaygray Sipakana of Solomon Warriors, two players who have shown their talent and potential in domestic competitions. However, the head coach, Felipe Vega-Arango, has made a strategic decision to give opportunities to new players, opting for Calvin Ohasio from Marist as the wing back and Norman Ngafu, also from Marist, as the striker.

Prince Tahunipue, who had been a regular starter for Felipe Vega-Arango’s team in recent tournaments as a wing back, has been omitted from the squad, despite his good start to the season with Central Coast. Tahunipue’s consistent performances and contributions to his club’s success make his exclusion surprising to some. However, it is important to understand that squad selection involves a variety of factors, including team dynamics, tactical considerations, and the need to explore new options.

Similarly, Jaygray Sipakana, a recent addition to the Solomon Warriors and the current champions, has been left out of the squad. Sipakana’s impressive start to the Telekom S-League season, scoring three goals in four matches, suggested that he could bring an added attacking threat to the national team. Nonetheless, the head coach has decided to explore different options and introduce fresh faces into the squad.

Felipe Vega-Arango’s decision to include Calvin Ohasio and Norman Ngafu in the national team squad reflects his willingness to give opportunities to deserving players who have shown promise in the Telekom S-League. Ohasio, known for his performances as a wing back for Marist, has displayed consistency and skill, making him a valuable addition to the national team. Ngafu, a prolific striker for Marist, has also impressed with his goal-scoring ability and provides an alternative attacking option.

By including fresh faces such as Ohasio and Ngafu in the squad, the head coach is actively encouraging the growth of football in the Solomon Islands. This strategy not only strengthens the national team but also promotes the development and exposure of young players, which can contribute to the long-term success of football in the country.

The omission of Prince Tahunipue and Jaygray Sipakana from the squad for the upcoming friendly matches for the Solomon Islands national team has opened the door for new players to showcase their abilities. While it may be disappointing for some fans, it is essential to recognize the head coach’s decision to provide opportunities to promising talents such as Calvin Ohasio and Norman Ngafu. These selections demonstrate a commitment to nurturing young players and ensuring a bright future for Solomon Islands football.

Tasso Jeffrey’s hopes to represent Vanuatu at Intercontinental Cup hindered by visa issues

Tasso Jeffrey, Ni-Vanuatu international and defender of Gawler Eagles in the National Premier Leagues 3 South Australia (NPL3 SA), has encountered a disappointing setback in his football career. The Australian-based player has been unable to join his national team squad as they head to India for the Intercontinental Cup. Despite his remarkable performances with Gawler Eagles, Tasso’s aspirations to represent Vanuatu have been hindered by visa issues.

Tasso Jeffrey’s journey in Australian football has been commendable. Having previously played for Galaxy FC and Malampa Revivors in his country, he has consistently displayed his skills and earned recognition for his contributions. His outstanding form caught the attention of Vanuatu’s national team head coach, Etienne Mermer, who called him up to represent his country on the international stage.

However, visa complications have posed a significant obstacle for Tasso. He had applied for a sports visa in Australia, a process that was crucial for his professional career. Unfortunately, if he leaves Australia now to join the Vanuatu national team, he risks losing the visa he has worked so hard to obtain. Joshua Smith, the head coach of FK Beograd in Adelaide, who played a pivotal role in facilitating Jeffrey’s move to Australia, expressed his disappointment at the timing of this issue, stating, “Tasso has applied for a sports visa in Australia, so he risks losing it if he leaves now, just bad timing.”

The absence of Tasso Jeffrey from Vanuatu’s national team squad is undoubtedly a blow for both the player and his country. However, it is important to note that Tasso is not the only of Gawler Eagles in the call-up: Lency Philip, will be able to join the national team as his visa is in a different process rather than Jeffrey’s.

Vanuatu’s national team will undoubtedly feel the absence of Tasso Jeffrey as they commence their campaign in the Intercontinental Cup. Their opening match against Lebanon took place on Friday, June 3rd, and they will have to find alternative solutions in defense without one of their key players.

Despite the unfortunate circumstances, Tasso Jeffrey’s talent and dedication remain unquestionable. His performances in the Australian football scene have already made a significant impact, and it is only a matter of time before he gets the opportunity to showcase his skills on the international stage. The hope is that visa issues can be resolved in the near future, allowing him to proudly represent Vanuatu in future competitions.

Solomon Islands: Legend Micah Lea’alafa retires from national team

Solomon Islands national team player Micah Lea’alafa, a football legend from the Pacific nation, has confirmed his retirement from international football at the age of 32. The decision came as a surprise to many, especially considering Lea’alafa’s recent captaincy and impressive performances for his country.

Coach Felipe Vega-Arango left Lea’alafa out of the squad for the upcoming friendly matches against Malaysia and Singapore, and it was revealed that the exclusion was due to the player’s decision to focus on his club career. Lea’alafa, who currently plays for the NPL South Australia side FK Beograd in Australia, expressed his desire to dedicate more time and energy to his club commitments. This also marks the retirement of Lea’alafa from the Kurukuru, Solomon Islands national futsal team, that he represented in four occasions in the FIFA Futsal World Cup.

Lea’alafa’s retirement marks the end of an era for the Solomon Islands national team. He had been a key figure for his country, leading them in important competitions such as the FIFA World Cup qualifiers and the 2022 MSG Prime Ministers Cup. As the former captain, Lea’alafa played a total of 22 matches for his national team, scoring an impressive seven goals along the way.

With his retirement, Lea’alafa opens the door for new players to step up and contribute to the national team’s success. His absence will undoubtedly create opportunities for emerging talents to showcase their skills and make their mark on the international stage.

Micah Lea’alafa’s impact on Solomon Islands football cannot be overstated. He has been a role model and inspiration for aspiring players in his homeland and has earned the respect and admiration of fans both domestically and internationally. His skill, leadership, and goal-scoring ability have made him a true legend of Solomon Islands football.

As Lea’alafa embarks on the next chapter of his career, focusing on his club commitments, fans and fellow players alike will undoubtedly remember his contributions to the national team. His retirement serves as a reminder of the inevitable passing of the torch in football, as new talents emerge to carry the hopes and dreams of their nation on the international stage.

Solomon Islands football will forever be grateful for Micah Lea’alafa’s service and dedication to the national team. His retirement leaves a void that will be challenging to fill, but it also provides an exciting opportunity for the next generation of players to step up and make their mark on the international stage, continuing the proud footballing tradition of the Solomon Islands.

Raphael Lea’i back in Honiara for trainings heading to Solomon Islands’ Asian Tour

Raphael Lea’i, the football star from the Solomon Islands, has returned to his homeland to join his national team in preparation for the upcoming matches against Malaysia and Singapore in the Asian Tour. As the only professional player in the national team, Lea’i carries the weight of expectations and is seen as the biggest hope for Solomon Islands football.

After completing his club commitments with Velež Mostar, Lea’i made the long journey back to the South Pacific to regroup with his teammates in Honiara. The training camp, led by head coach Felipe Vega-Arango, provides a crucial opportunity for the team to fine-tune their strategies and strengthen their cohesion ahead of these important fixtures.

Lea’i’s presence in the squad adds a significant boost to the team’s morale and quality. At only 19 years old, he has already showcased immense skill and potential on the field. His time in the competitive European leagues has undoubtedly sharpened his abilities and exposed him to a higher level of play. Now, he brings that experience back home to inspire and guide his fellow national team players.

The Solomon Islands national team recognizes the importance of these upcoming matches against Malaysia and Singapore. They serve as valuable opportunities to measure their progress, gain exposure on the international stage, and showcase the talent and potential of Solomon Islands football. The team aims to display their passion, determination, and tactical prowess against these formidable opponents.

Under the guidance of Coach Vega-Arango, the team’s training sessions are intense and focused. The players work tirelessly on their fitness, technical skills, and tactical understanding. Lea’i, with his professional experience, contributes significantly to the team’s growth and development during these preparations.

The Solomon Islands football community eagerly awaits the performances of their national team, and the expectations surrounding Raphael Lea’i are high. As the country’s biggest footballing hope, he represents the aspirations and dreams of an entire nation. The matches against Malaysia and Singapore are not only important in terms of results but also in showcasing the talent and potential of Solomon Islands football to the world.

With hard work, dedication, and a united team effort, the Solomon Islands national team, guided by Coach Felipe Vega-Arango and led by Raphael Lea’i, is determined to make their mark in the Asian Tour. As the countdown begins to the matches on 14th June against Malaysia and 18th June against Singapore, the team will leave no stone unturned in their preparations, aiming to achieve success and make their country proud.