Oceania Football Center

Epeli Valevou satisfied with Rewa’s performances as they head for final group match at OFC Champions League

Rewa started strong their campaign in the 2024 edition of the OFC Champions League; the current Fijian Champions started with a 2-2 draw against title holders Auckland City and one of the standout players upfront of the Delta Tigers talked to Oceania Football Center – Epeli Valevou. “I think we did well with keeping ball possession, but just lacked focus coming into the final third of the ground. I think we rushed things in the final thrid, but all in all was a good game displayed by the team“, said the former Tailevu Naitasiri man on his debut match in the competition.

“Even though conceding early in the game we had confidence that we would pull through our main goal: to secure the three points. We’ve managed to do just silly mistakes which made us conceding goals otherwise we did great as a team and managed to come through with the three points. Everyone understands their role in the game which did not make us panic. But after al I am happy with how we played against the Solomon Warriors“, said the 23-year-old forward on their second match, the 3-2 hard fought over the Solomon Islands representatives Solomon Warriors.

Valevu (left) in Rewa outfit – *Fiji FA Media*

As the team approaches its final and decisive game in the group, Valevou is confident and shares his thought on what his team and coach Rodick Singh have on mind for the crucial game ahead Hekari United from Papua New Guinea: “I think coming into the last pool game, we don’t want to rush things, but will have to minimize our mistakes from the back and keep more ball possession in our final third and finish off each chance as it comes“, said the speedy striker.

A draw is probrably enough for Rewa to advance to the semifinal stage as Hekari led by the local football legend David Muta will definitely need to win the encounter if they want to seal a spot in the knock-out stage of the tournament that is being held in Tahiti.

OFC Champions League: Brazilian Erick Joe ready to make history for Hekari United

Alongside Lucas Santos, the central defender Erick Joe makes the duo of Brazilian that recently joined Hekari United, the Papua New Guinean football powerhouse. While the midfielder is still make his debut for the team coached by David Muta, Joe is a steward in defence is one of the pillars of the team that is doing impressive in the OFC Champions League so far.

The player, that told Oceania Football Center is going to stay for the rest the local football season in Papua New Guinea with Hekari, left the first two matches of his new club in the regional tournament due injuries: “in the first match I got only cramps, but in the second match I got my ankle twisted when ball touched it at the bottom of the my foot“, said Joe to Oceania Football Center – “we have a very good phyisio in Hekari and I will be 100% to play the final group match”, he added.

Erick Joe in action for Hekari United – *OFC Media*

“I am sure that we are an excellent team, that our team understands very well what our cach David Muta passes on. I believe that we are playing very well and that with each game we are evolving more and I am sure that we will fight for the OCL title“, said Joe when asked about his thoughts on his team development. “In our opening game we played well, we managed to make a few mistakes before facing the strong Auckland City FC side, and against them we played an excellent game, we went up too, we had possession, but unfortunately in the last minute of the game, the lack of attention, we ended up conceding the goal“, he stated.

“It serves as a great experience for us. We plan to play Auckland City FC again in the final, so then we will have what it takes to beat them and emerge victorius“, he mentioned in the final of the interview. If Erick Joe and his teammates manage to do so and return to an OFC Champions League grand final, history will be made and certainly the Brazilian will be an asset to help Hekari to battle for their second ever title of the most important club football tournament in the region.

AS Pirae outclass struggling Ifira Black Bird in resounding victory at OFC Champions League

In a commanding performance, AS Pirae triumphed 5-1 over Ifira Black Bird in their OFC Champions League 2024 opener in Tahiti. Despite a valiant effort from the Vanuatu side, travel disruptions and a thin squad saw them succumb to the dominant hosts. Pirae secured their place in the semifinals as they collected their second win in two matches.

Ifira Black Bird’s arrival in Tahiti was marred by delays, with the team landing just the evening before the match. Compounding their troubles, they only had twelve players available for the game. Nevertheless, the team showed remarkable resilience early on, launching quick counter-attacks against a high-pressing AS Pirae.

However, the home team took the lead with a spectacular long-range strike from Yohann Tihoni, who fired a 25-yard shot into the top corner past Dick Sablan. The Tahitians quickly capitalized on their momentum, adding a second goal just four minutes later. Désiré Ngiamba’s shot from outside the box took a fortunate deflection leaving Sablan with no chance.

Ifira Black Bird, undeterred by the early setbacks, found a way back into the match. Kerry Iawak seized on a loose ball after a probing run from Johnathan SpokeyJack and smashed it into the near post to reduce the deficit. SpokeyJack nearly equalized shortly before halftime, but his powerful shot rattled the crossbar.

AS Pirae started the second half with renewed energy and restored their two-goal cushion when Sandro Tau’s cross found Ariiura Labaste, who tapped in from close range. Labaste doubled his tally in the 63rd minute with a well-placed shot through a crowded penalty area, effectively putting the game beyond Ifira’s reach.

The toll of travel and limited squad options began to show for Ifira as the match progressed. AS Pirae added a fifth goal when Sandro Tau headed in from close range following a clever assist from Heirauarii Salem. Any hopes of a comeback for Ifira were dashed when goalscorer Iawak was shown a straight red card for a reckless tackle in the 77th minute.

Heimano Bourebare (left) and John Wohale (right) battle for the ball – *OFC Media*

AS Pirae’s victory, their second in the tournament, propels them to the top of Group B, virtually securing a spot in the semi-finals. For Ifira Black Bird, the arrival of the remainder of their squad offers hope for better results in their upcoming match against Samoa’s Vaivase-tai FC.

Despite the defeat, the spirit of Ifira Black Bird shone through. The team wore black ribbons on their left arms in solidarity with their Melanesian brothers and sisters in New Caledonia due the complicated political situation in the country at the moment. The lone goal for Ifira Black Bird was a moment of pride for the team and their supporters, that despite their setbacks they were able to give some fight to the hosts.

In the face of adversity, Ifira Black Bird demonstrated courage and determination, promising to bounce back with the arrival of their full squad expected to happen very soon. The next match will be crucial for their chances in the tournament, and they remain hopeful of making a significant impact.

Brian Kaltak earns spot in PFA “Team of the Year” for second consecutive season in A-League

Brian Kaltak, the 30-year-old central defender from Vanuatu and standout player for the Central Coast Mariners, has once again been honored with a spot in the Professional Footballers Australia (PFA) “Team of the Year”. This marks the second consecutive season that Kaltak has received this accolade, proving his exceptional performances and consistent contributions on the field.

Kaltak has been a key figure for the Mariners, whose stellar season saw them clinch both the Premier’s Plate and the AFC Cup. His solid defensive skills have been instrumental in the team’s success, providing a reliable backbone that has allowed the Mariners to dominate their competitions.

Under Kaltak’s leadership, the Mariners have excelled, not only securing top honors but also establishing themselves as strong contenders for retaining the A-League title. His ability to read the game, coupled with his physical presence has made him an indispensable part of the team.

Kaltak’s recognition by the PFA underscores his impact and value – a proof that there’s a lot of talent to be developed in South Pacific Islands. The votes were given by A-League players – as the Professional Footballers Australia is the union of the local players in the country – and awarded the Vanuatu national team captain again.

As the Mariners look ahead for A-League play-offs, aiming to defend their A-League title, Kaltak’s presence will be crucial. His experience, coupled with his proven track record of excellence, provides the team with a solid foundation upon which to build further successes.

Brian Kaltak’s repeated inclusion in the PFA “Team of the Year” highlights his significant achievements and contributions to Australian football. As he continues to lead by example, his influence on the Mariners and the league as a whole remains profoundly positive.

OFC Champions League: Ifira Black Bird will have only 12 players available for their debut match against AS Pirae

Ifira Black Bird Football Club, Vanuatu’s national champions, is facing significant challenges as they prepare for their opening match in the OFC Champions League against Tahiti’s AS Pirae. The match is scheduled for Friday, May 17, 2024, at 2:45 PM Vanuatu time. Despite their determination, logistical hurdles have severely impacted their preparations and squad availability.

The club’s management announced that all 19 players and two coaches initially arrived in New Zealand. However, due to limited flight availability from New Zealand to Tahiti, only seven players and Head Coach Robert Yalou could proceed to Tahiti, arriving on Wednesday, May 15, at 11 PM Tahiti time – some of the players that just reached Tahitian soil are key for Ifira as the striker Jonathan Spokeyjack, the midfielder John Wohale and the defender Samuel Kaloros. Five eligible players who were already in Tahiti will join them, bringing the total to 12 players, including one substitute, available for the crucial first group match.

The remaining 12 players and the assistant coach are currently stranded at the OFC Academy in New Zealand, awaiting the next available flight to Tahiti. This situation arose following the cancellation of Air Vanuatu flights, a setback that was beyond the club’s control.

The Ifira Black Bird team, known for their strong performance last year when they reached the semifinals of the OFC Champions League, now faces a daunting task with a significantly depleted squad. The reduction in available players is a severe blow to their campaign this year, raising concerns about their ability to compete effectively against strong opponents like AS Pirae.

Ifira BB players reaching Tahitian soil – *IBB Media*

Despite these challenges, the team’s spirits remain high. Coach Robert Yalou and his players are focused and determined to give their best performance under the circumstances. The club’s management has expressed their gratitude for the support from fans and families back home in Vanuatu, acknowledging the difficult journey but emphasizing their commitment to representing their nation with pride.

The logistical complications and the resulting impact on the team’s readiness highlight the broader issues facing clubs from smaller nations in international competitions. Travel constraints and resource limitations often put them at a disadvantage, underscoring the need for more robust support systems to ensure fair competition.

“Peace mon Pays”: Germain Haewegene shines for AS Magenta and dedicates his goals to his country

🇫🇷 Français

AS Magenta made a significant impression with an 8-0 victory against Vaivase-Tai FC in their first match of the OFC Champions League. This resounding win was largely due to the incredible performance of Germain Haewegene, who scored five of his team’s eight goals (9′, 12′, 37′, 45′, 48′). This match will be remembered not only for the score but also for Haewegene’s poignant message.

After scoring his first goal, Haewegene celebrated by raising his arms to the sky and shouting “Peace my country,” showing a shirt with the words mentioned writen – a symbolic gesture in support of his homeland, New Caledonia, currently troubled by political tensions and violence. This message of peace and hope resonated deeply with spectators and fans.

Off the field, the situation in New Caledonia is concerning. The French government has declared a state of emergency after three days of deadly violence between protesters, militias, and police in the capital, Nouméa. At least four people have died in these clashes, the worst since the 1980s. Authorities have imposed a curfew, closed the main airport, and banned public gatherings, carrying weapons, and selling alcohol.

Germain Haewegene celebrates in fashion – *OFC Media*

Political tensions, simmering for years, erupted following a proposed constitutional change in the French parliament, aimed at granting more voting rights to French residents of the archipelago. This decision, seen as an attempt by Paris to consolidate its control, has been overwhelmingly rejected by the largely pro-independence indigenous Kanak communities, exacerbating divisions between supporters and opponents of independence.

On the field, the performances of Haewegene and his teammates provided a moment of respite and pride for AS Magenta supporters – the club is the current Super Ligue title holders. Besides Haewegene, Gilbert Kugogne contributed to the victory with a double (51′, 63′), while Louis Brunet sealed the score in the 87th minute.

Haewegene’s declaration “Peace my country” reminded everyone that football can be a vehicle for peace and unity, even in the most difficult times. Despite the turmoil, AS Magenta and its players show that hope and solidarity can prevail.

AS Magenta puts eight-past Vaivase-tai as Germain Haewegene shines bright

AS Magenta opened their OFC Men’s Champions League 2024 campaign with a solid 8-0 win against Samoa’s Vaivase-tai FC in Tahiti. The New Caledonian team, whose original first fixture against Ifira Black Bird FC was rescheduled, dominated from start to finish.

Forward Germain Haewegene, 27, played a pivotal role in AS Magenta’s success, scoring five of the eight goals. Haewegene’s first goal came early, tapping in from close range following a cross from Romarick Luepak. He quickly followed up with a second goal, capitalizing on a loose ball to lift it over the goalkeeper.

Haewegene completed his hat-trick in the 37th minute with a header that found the corner of the net. Just before half-time, he added a fourth with a low shot inside the near post. Florian Gope added another goal with a long-range effort, making it 5-0 at the break.

Haewegene earned himself the ‘Man of the Match’ award – *FTF Media*

Three minutes into the second half, Haewegene scored his fifth goal, finishing a through ball from Luepak. He then assisted Gilbert Kugogne, whose shot went through the goalkeeper’s hands. Substitute Louis Brunet completed the scoring, finding the far corner with a shot from the edge of the area.

AS Magenta will face AS Pirae next, with the winner advancing to the semi-finals. Vaivase-tai FC will look to end their group stage on a positive note against Ifira Black Bird FC. Germain Haewegene’s performance was key to AS Magenta’s convincing win, highlighting his importance to the team.

Ifira Black Bird’s arrival delayed in Tahiti for OFC Champions League; schedule changed once again

Ifira Black Bird FC’s journey to the OFC Men’s Champions League 2024 in Tahiti has been significantly disrupted, leading to a new reshuffle of the tournament schedule. The team from Port Vila, Vanuatu, faced multiple travel hurdles that have delayed their arrival and forced the tournament organizers to adjust match dates accordingly.

The initial delay arose from the collapse of Air Vanuatu last week, which left Ifira Black Bird FC stranded. The situation worsened when their connecting Air Calin flight from Nadi, Fiji, was cancelled due to blockades at Noumea Airport in New Caledonia, leading to its closure and grounding all flights. Situation in Noumea got politicaly serious, the capital of New Caledonia where Ifira players would need to land before travelling to Tahiti is facing a number of violent demostrations after the local government is considerting to change its migration policies.

With these travel disruptions, some matches of the tournament had to be postponed by 24 hours. The new schedule adjustments are as follows:

Match Day 2:
- AS Magenta vs. Vaivase-Tai FC will remain on Wednesday, 15 May 2024.
- AS Pirae vs. Ifira Black Bird FC has been rescheduled to Thursday, 16 May 2024.
Match Day 3:
- All matches will now be played on Saturday, 18 May 2024.
Match Day 1 Rescheduled Match:
- Ifira Black Bird FC vs. AS Magenta will be moved to Monday, 20 May 2024.

The semi-finals and final will proceed as originally scheduled on May 22 and May 24, respectively.

Harry Atisson, president of the Port Vila Football Association, expressed frustration over the travel setbacks but confirmed that OFC has arranged new flights and updated the schedule to ensure Ifira Black Bird FC’s participation in the tournament,he told Oceania Football Center. Despite the challenges, the team remains determined to compete, hoping to replicate and surpass their performance from the last edition, where they reached the semi-finals but were narrowly defeated by Auckland City in a penalty shootout.

As the tournament progresses, fans and organizers alike will be keeping a close eye on Ifira Black Bird FC, anticipating their arrival and looking forward to their contribution to the competition.

Rewa sends Solomon Warrirors home with an impressive comeback win in OFC Champions League

Fijian champions Rewa FC continued their strong start in the OFC Champions League 2024 with a thrilling 3-2 comeback victory over Solomon Warriors on the second matchday of Group A, held at Stade Paea in Tahiti. This victory follows their impressive 2-2 draw with defending champions Auckland City in their opening match.

The match began with Solomon Warriors taking the lead early. In the 15th minute, captain Gagame Feni capitalized on a sharp midfield interception by Jaygray Sipakana, racing through and confidently slotting the ball past Rewa’s goalkeeper, Isikeli Sevanaia. Feni came close to doubling the lead with a long-range effort that narrowly missed the target, keeping Rewa in the game.

Rewa responded decisively with two goals in quick succession just before halftime, turning the game on its head. Influential midfielder Setareki Hughes drove forward and found space inside the Warriors’ penalty area, cutting back onto his left foot and firing a low shot into the near corner to equalize.

Minutes later, a perfectly timed through ball found Samu Kautoga, who made no mistake in sending a low shot past the goalkeeper, giving Rewa a 2-1 lead at halftime.

In the second half, Rewa extended their lead further. Josaia Sela timed his run perfectly, rounded the goalkeeper, and calmly side-footed home to make it 3-1, securing what seemed to be a comfortable lead.

However, Solomon Warriors fought back. Gagame Feni scored his second goal of the match with a well-placed header at the back post, making it 3-2 and setting up a nervy final fifteen minutes. Despite a late chance for Feni, who fired over the bar from inside the area, Rewa held on for the victory.

Warriors’ John Alick (red) and Rewa’s Tevita Waranaivalu battle for the ball – *OFC Media*

Rewa FC now sits with four points from their first two matches and looks forward to a crucial final group stage match against Papua New Guinea’s Hekari United later this week. A win would secure their spot in the semifinals. Solomon Warriors, meanwhile, are confirmed to exit early, with a final match against Auckland City remaining.

Rodick Singh’s side has shown resilience , particularly through standout performances from Setareki Hughes, Samu Kautoga, and Josaia Sela. Their journey so far underscores their potential to make a significant impact in the tournament.

As Rewa prepares for their decisive match against Hekari United, the team and their supporters are hopeful of continuing their impressive run and securing a place in the knockout stages of the OFC Champions League 2024.

Liam Giilion’s late goal seals Auckland City dramatic stoppage-time win over resiliet Hekari United in OFC Champions League

In a pulsating encounter at the OFC Men’s Champions League, Auckland City FC secured a crucial 1-0 win over Papua New Guinea’s champions, Hekari United, thanks to a dramatic stoppage-time goal from Liam Gillion. The victory breathes new life into Auckland City’s campaign following their opening day draw against Rewa FC of Fiji.

Auckland City, the defending champions, dominated possession in the first half but struggled to break down a resolute Hekari United defense. Gerard Garriga had the best chances for the New Zealanders, narrowly missing the target on two occasions. Despite their control, Auckland City could not convert their dominance into goals in the opening 45 minutes.

Hekari United, coming off a strong second-half performance in their 2-0 win over Solomon Warriors last week, posed a constant threat on the counterattack. Ati Kepo, Hekari’s standout player, had the best opportunity in the first half but shot over the bar from a promising position.

The second half mirrored the first, with Auckland City continuing to press while Hekari United defended resolutely. The hot and humid conditions in Tahiti took a toll on both teams, slowing the pace of the game. Liam Gillion emerged as Auckland City’s primary attacking threat, testing Hekari goalkeeper Dave Tomare with a well-struck shot in the 56th minute and a free-kick that just missed the target.

As the match approached its conclusion, Auckland City’s desperation for a goal grew. Substitute Stipe Ukich’s shot narrowly missed, and Tomare made a crucial save to deny Garriga in the dying moments of regular time.

However, the breakthrough finally came in stoppage time. Garriga, latching onto a brilliant through ball, squared it across the face of goal for Gillion, who tapped in from close range to send Auckland City’s supporters into raptures.

Gillion celebrates his goal – *OFC Media*

Hekari United put up a valiant fight, with Tomare’s heroics in goal keeping them in the match until the very end. Despite their solid defensive performance and control of the ball for much of the second half, a lapse in concentration in injury time proved costly.

With this victory, Auckland City bounces back from their initial 2-2 draw against Rewa, keeping their hopes alive for a semi-final berth. Hekari United, despite the loss, remain in contention and will look to secure a spot in the next round in their final group match against Rewa. Auckland City will face Solomon Warriors in what promises to be a decisive match for both teams.

The final group matchday is set to be an exciting conclusion to the group stage, with all teams still in with a chance to progress. Auckland City’s resilience and Gillion’s late heroics have set the stage for a thrilling finish to the group phase of the OFC Men’s Champions League.