Vanuatu squad is set for Intercontinental Cup in India; Brian Kaltak is included

The Vanuatu national football team, under the guidance of coach Etienne Mermer, is ready to showcase its talent at the upcoming Intercontinental Cup in India. The team has been meticulously selected, with a focus on building a strong squad capable of competing against tough opponents. Led by their captain Brian Kaltak, who recently emerged victorious in the A-League with the Central Coast Mariners, Vanuatu aims to make a mark in this prestigious tournament. You can check the complete squad by clicking here.

The squad includes eight players from the current national champions, Ifira Black Bird, who enjoyed a remarkable journey in the OFC Champions League. Mermer recognizes the impressive performances of Ifira Black Bird and believes that these players will bring their winning mindset and skills to the national team. Their experience and success in the domestic league will undoubtedly strengthen the squad’s overall performance.

Another significant inclusion in the squad is the dynamic duo from Suva FC, Alex Saniel and Azariah Soromon. These two players played a pivotal role in Suva’s success in the OFC Champions League. With their exceptional abilities, they are expected to contribute significantly to Vanuatu’s campaign in the Intercontinental Cup.

Vanuatu National Team this March in Fiji – Fiji FA Media

In addition to the aforementioned players, the squad also features several well-known local talents such as Jason Thomas and Barry Mansale. These players have proven their worth in the domestic leagues and have earned recognition for their skills and contributions to Vanuatu football. Their presence adds depth and familiarity to the squad, creating a cohesive and balanced team.

Vanuatu is scheduled to face Lebanon, India, and Mongolia in their upcoming matches in Bhubaneswar. These matches will provide a stern test for the team, as they go up against strong opponents from different regions. However, the squad’s selection demonstrates the coach’s confidence in their abilities to compete at an international level.

As the squad prepares for the tournament, Vanuatu football fans eagerly anticipate their team’s performances, hoping for memorable moments and victories on the international stage.

Star Raphael Lea’i called up as Solomon Islands squad is announced for ‘Asian Tour’

The Solomon Islands national football team has announced its squad for the upcoming friendly matches against Malaysia and Singapore, scheduled to be played in Asia on June 14th and 18th respectively. The squad features a mix of local talent and foreign-based players, including the young prodigy Raphael Lea’i, who is the lone professional player in the team.

At just 19 years of age, Raphael Lea’i has already established himself as a rising star in Solomon Islands football. Known for his technical skills and goal-scoring ability, Lea’i has been making waves both domestically and internationally. His inclusion is certainly a boost for Solomon Islands. You can see the full squad by clicking here.

Joining Lea’i in the squad are two foreign-based players. Ian Kalu, defender from Napier City Rovers in New Zealand, brings his experience and defensive prowess to the team. Marlon Tahioa, midfielder from O-League‘s runners-up Suva FC in Fiji, adds creativity and vision to the midfield.

Three new faces in the traveling squad are Clavin Ohasio, Ben Fox, and Norman Ngafu, all from Marist FC. These players have previously been trialists and have now earned their spot in the national team. Their selection showcases their progress and development, and they will be eager to make an impact in the upcoming matches.

Solomon Islands – MSG Media

The Telekom S-League side, Central Coast, has the most representation in the squad with six players called up. This highlights the quality of the team and the players’ performances in the domestic league. It also indicates the importance of Central Coast’s contribution to the national team setup.

Two players from the current Telekom S-League champions, Aengari Jr Gagame and Alvin Hou, have also received the call-up. Their success with their club has earned them recognition at the national level, and they will be looking to carry their winning mentality into the friendly matches.

Under the guidance of coach Felipe Vega-Arango, the Solomon Islands squad is well-equipped to take on the challenges posed by Malaysia and Singapore. With a blend of youth and experience, the team will be aiming to showcase their skills and gain valuable international exposure in these matches.

Vanuatu’s Prime Minister on Brian Kaltak achievements: “This is what will transform Vanuatu”

Brian Kaltak, Vanuatu’s national team captain, was welcomed with open arms by Vanuatu’s Premier Minister, Hon. Ishmael Kalsakau, in a moment of great celebration and pride. The extraordinary event took place at the CommBank Stadium in Sydney after Kaltak’s team, the Central Coast Mariners, delivered a stunning victory over Melbourne City in the A-League’s Grand Final, with a resounding 6-1 scoreline.

Kaltak’s exceptional performance on the field not only secured his team’s triumph but also propelled him to the status of a national hero. In a remarkable show of support, many of his fellow countrymen filled the stands, proudly waving the Vanuatu flag and cheering on their talented compatriot. Among them was Premier Minister Ishmael Kalsakau, who took the time to witness the historic moment and congratulate Kaltak personally.

Overwhelmed by the surprise visit from his country’s leader, Kaltak expressed his astonishment, saying, “I didn’t even know they were here until one of the management came running up to me and said, ‘Your prime minister is here.'” The realization of having the Premier Minister in attendance added another layer of significance to the momentous occasion.

Premier Minister Ishmael Kalsakau, visibly thrilled by Kaltak’s remarkable achievement, praised him as a true pioneer and an inspiration for future players in Vanuatu. The Premier Minister highlighted the impact that Kaltak’s success could have on aspiring footballers in the country, stating, “It is an excellent motivation for future players in Vanuatu looking up to him. He is a real pioneer. This is what will transform Vanuatu.”

PM Kalsakau words on Brian Kaltak

Kaltak’s triumph not only showcased his extraordinary talent but also brought attention to the potential for sports development and transformation within Vanuatu. With his incredible performance, he became a shining example for young athletes who dream of making their mark on the international stage. Kaltak’s journey, from a small island nation to the grand stage of the A-League, serves as a testament to the power of dedication, skill, and perseverance.

The presence of Premier Minister Ishmael Kalsakau in Sydney to support Brian Kaltak and witness the incredible victory underscored the significance of this achievement for Vanuatu as a whole. It symbolized the unity and pride of the nation, as they rallied behind one of their own and celebrated his outstanding success on the global football stage.

As Kaltak stood in the spotlight, surrounded by adoring fans and embraced by his Prime Minister, he not only basked in the glory of his triumph but also became a beacon of hope and inspiration for generations to come. His achievements serve as a reminder that with determination, talent, and unwavering support, individuals from even the smallest nations can leave an indelible mark on the world stage.

OFFICIAL: Fijian star Roy Krishna departs Indian Super League’s Bengaluru FC

The departure of Fijian football star Roy Krishna from Bengaluru FC in India marks the end of a remarkable chapter in his career. Since joining the Indian Super League (ISL) in 2019, Krishna has consistently been regarded as one of the league’s best players, leaving a lasting impact on the Indian football scene.

Krishna’s debut season in the ISL was nothing short of exceptional. He showcased his incredible talent and quickly established himself as a prominent figure in the league. However, in the 2022-23 season, he faced some challenges at the beginning, struggling to find his scoring form and netting only one goal in the first 10 games. Bengaluru FC also had a rocky start, losing eight out of their opening 12 matches and nearly missing out on a playoff spot.

Nevertheless, as the year progressed, Bengaluru’s coach, Simon Grayson, made a tactical change that proved to be a turning point for Krishna. Pairing him alongside young talent Sivasakthi Narayanan, Grayson’s decision paid off as Krishna’s performances soared. He became an essential component of the team, contributing to their success in winning the Durand Cup and reaching the finals of both the Indian Super League and the Hero Super Cup. During this period, Krishna played a vital role in Bengaluru’s impressive 10-match winning streak, securing their spot in the finals.

Throughout his time with Bengaluru FC, Krishna appeared in 32 matches and scored a total of 10 goals, with five of them coming in the Indian Super League. Despite not reaching his peak scoring form, he remained a constant threat to defenders, utilizing his well-rounded playing style to benefit his team.

Roy Krishna – ISL Media

Before joining Bengaluru FC, Krishna had a successful stint with ATK Mohun Bagan, where he also served as the team’s captain. In his three seasons with the club, he became the first Fijian player to compete in the AFC Cup. He also clinched the Indian Super League title during his time with Mohun Bagan and was honored with the Best Player of the Season award.

As Krishna departs from Bengaluru, speculation arises regarding a potential move to Wellington Phoenix in the A-League. He has previously represented the club and is their all-time leading goal scorer. Additionally, he has won the prestigious Johnny Warren Medal, awarded to the best player of the A-League season.

Roy Krishna’s journey in the Indian Super League has been filled with memorable moments and achievements. His impact on Indian football and his contributions to the clubs he represented will not be forgotten. As he embarks on a new chapter, fans eagerly await his future endeavors, hoping to witness his continued success both on and off the field.

Vanuatu’s Brian Kaltak and his Central Coast Mariners are champions of A-League!

In a superb match by Nick Montgomery-coached side, the Vanuatu national hero and his Central Coast Mariners defied the odds put a strong performance over the mighty Melbourne City. In a flawless performance of the central defender, the Central Coast Mariners seemed always very close to take the glory as they’ve done so in fashion after beating City by 6-1. With the result, Mariners end a 10-drought of A-League’s title and Brian Kaltak confirms himself as the first ever Pacific Islander to win the Australian’s A-League.

In a great first half, Mariners were always a threat in the counter and Beni N’Kololo cross found Jason Cummings in the penalty box to put his team ahead at the 20th minute. The striker needed two opportunities to put it over Tom Glover. Melbourne pushed forward to find an equaliser, but it was Mariners that through Sam Silveira in a fantastic solo effort put his pace over City’s Nuno Reis to place it at the bottom corner to give Mariners a two-goal advantage.

Still in the first half Melbourne found themselves a lifeline as Socceroos‘ star Jamie McLaren found the Dutch midfielder Richard van der Venne in the middle of the box to finish it past Danny Vukovic. The current premiers cut the deficit and expected to find an equaliser in the second half.

Melbourne could not do different as they pushed forward in the early stages of the final 45 minutes. Brian Kaltak and his partner in defense Nectar Triants made a number of clearances, alongside All Whites’ members Storm Roux and James McGarry in the back four. With the introduction of the youngster Jacob Farrell in place of McGarry, Mariners got a lot of speed in their left flank and it paid off in the first touch of the wing back on the ball as he was brought down in the box by Andrew Nabbout. With an easy penalty call for referee Chris Beath, the striker Jason Cummings made no mistake from the spot kick to restore the two-goal margin for the Mariners.

Brian Kaltak celebrates – A-League Media

Minutes later, in another counter, Marco TĂşlio found Farrell in an overlap run, the youngster crossed it to the area and it hit the arm of Melbourne City’s Callum Talbot. Another penalty-kick was awarded, Cummings step-up and made no mistake – completing his hattrick.

As the match seemed over for Melbourne, Mariners still had time to hit more two goals and complete a total demolition of the premiers: Sam Silvera with an amazing cross found Beni N’Kololo free in front of the goal to head it home and make it five. Already in the stoppage time, N’Kololo gave his second assist of the match this time to Brazilian substitute Matheus Moresche, making it six for the Gosford-based side.

With an compreehensive win, Central Coast Mariners clear all the doubts and secured a famous win for the club that crows them the A-League champions of the 2022/23 season. A fantastic moment for the club, fans and players and especially for Brian Kaltak – the defender had not played professional football before this season. Now he is an A-League champion!

The nation of Vanuatu erupts in joy as Mariners and his national hero can celebrate now a superb season, completing it with the A-League’s title that confirms the quality of its players, including Kaltak, voted one of the best defenders of the competition prior to the Grand Final.

Legend: Solomon Islands’ captain Micah Lea’alafa turns 32

Micah Lea’alafa, one of the best players ever coming from the Solomon Islands, celebrates his 32nd birthday today, June 1st. As the team captain of the national football team, he has made a significant impact on the sport in his country and has garnered admiration from his fellow teammates. The local legend also had represented the Kurukuru, Solomon Islands national futsal team, in four editions of the FIFA Futsal World Cup.

Lea’alafa received warm congratulations on his special day from his national teammates, including Don Keana, Javin Wae, and Ian Kalu. Their messages of appreciation and support reflect the camaraderie and respect that exists within the team. Lea’alafa’s leadership qualities and dedication to the sport have earned him the admiration of his peers, and his birthday serves as a reminder of his accomplishments and contributions.

Having formerly played for Auckland City – where he had achieved success in South Pacific football winning twice the OFC Champions League and participating in FIFA Club World Cup – where he showcased his immense skills, Lea’alafa has now taken his talents to Australia, where he currently represents FK Beograd. The move to Australia has provided him with new challenges and opportunities to further develop his abilities on a different stage. Previously, Lea’alafa also tasted what it is to be full professional player when he had a season in 2019/20 playing for South Africa’s premiership side Maritzburg.

Micah Lea’alafa

In the current season, Lea’alafa has been performing exceptionally well for FK Beograd, leaving a mark with his impressive goal-scoring record. He has already found the back of the net three times, demonstrating his knack for finding scoring opportunities and his ability to contribute to his team’s success. Lea’alafa’s consistent performances on the field have solidified his position as a key player for FK Beograd, and his contributions have not gone unnoticed by both the fans and the coaching staff.

As Lea’alafa celebrates his birthday, it is an occasion to recognize his achievements as a football and futsal player – a leader in his national team. His journey from the Solomon Islands to Australia has showcased his dedication, determination, and passion for the sport. As he enters a new year of his life, there is no doubt that Micah Lea’alafa will continue to make significant strides in his career and inspire aspiring footballers both in his country and beyond.

Brian Kaltak: “I can’t wait to play A-League’s Grand Final”

of the clubs Ni-Vanuatu football star Brian Kaltak had played in the South Pacific before having a go in professional football; the defender headed to Australia first to play for NPL – South Australia side FK Beograd, then finally got an opportunity in A-League with Central Coast Mariners as an injury replacement.

The 29-year-old player did not waste time to impress; Kaltak already penned a three-year contract earlier this year after a very good first half of season. The defender helped Central Coast Mariners to finished 2nd in the A-League regular season, qualify for continental football and finally reach the A-League’s Grand Final – that will be played this Saturday (03rd June) with national TV coverage in Vanuatu – after beating Adelaide United in a two-legged semifinal. Now Kaltak and his teammates will have the greatest challenge of the season as they head to Sydney to take on Melbourne City pursuing for the ultimate glory.

Brian Kaltak meeting his fans – CCM Media

“I can’t wait to play in the Grand Final, I’m so excited“, said Kaltak in interview to Oceania Football Center. The star player was recently voted into the Professional Footballers Australia (PFA) starting team – being one the best players throught the season.

As Mariners head into the grand final, the preparations for the decisive game progress; but Kaltak says it continues as usual: “preparations are going great, nothing changes – we just stick to our same routine“, said the central back. The atmosphere seems great around CCM as the Grand Final approaches: “everyone is very happy for the season and I am also happy to be finally in this stage“, stated Brian Kaltak.

Only in his first season as a pro-player the now national hero of Vanuatu achieved what is the pinnacle of his career; full of praise of his coaches and football experts around Australia, Kaltak proved he can be a star in the A-League and, as notably mentioned by Mariners’ head coach Nick Montgomery, he can go even further in international stage.

This Saturday means a lot for Mariners; the Gosford-based side can be sure they will count the support of the entirety of Vanuatu nation, cheering for the club that granted an opportunity to its national team captain to showcase the quality we, the fans of Oceania football, were always sure he possesed.

Brian Kaltak achieves another milestone as he is named into PFA’s ‘Team of the Season’

Vanuatu national team captain, Brian Kaltak, has achieved a remarkable feat by being named into the starting team of the Professional Footballers Australia (PFA). This recognition comes as a result of his exceptional journey with his club, the Central Coast Mariners, who are set to play a highly anticipated match against Melbourne City in the A-League’s Grand Final on Saturday, June 3rd.

At 29 years old, Kaltak has emerged as a national hero through his stellar performances this season, playing a crucial role in his team’s success and establishing himself as one of the finest central defenders in the league. It is noteworthy that this is his first season in the league and also his inaugural year as a professional player. Despite these factors, Kaltak has showcased immense skill, determination, and leadership, earning him widespread acclaim.

The grand final match between Central Coast Mariners and Melbourne City will be televised live in Vanuatu, and Kaltak’s compatriots are sure to be filled with pride and anticipation as they watch their captain take the field. Kaltak’s outstanding contributions throughout the season have made a lasting impression in Australian football, with fans and pundits alike acknowledging his immense talent and impact on the game.

Brian Kaltak with CCM and Vanuatu fans – A-League Media

The grand final represents a momentous occasion for Kaltak and his teammates, as they aim to secure victory and etch their names in football history. With Kaltak’s exceptional defensive abilities and his unwavering commitment to his team, the Central Coast Mariners have a strong chance of success in this highly anticipated clash. Fans across Vanuatu will be rallying behind their national hero, hoping for a memorable triumph on the grandest stage.

Brian Kaltak’s journey from a relative unknown to a respected figure in Australian football is a testament to his skill, dedication, and perseverance. His remarkable season has firmly established him as one of the league’s top central defenders, and his inclusion in the PFA starting team further underscores his impact on the game. As Kaltak prepares to lead his team into battle, the eyes of the nation will be upon him, and his compatriots will be hoping for a monumental achievement on the upcoming grand final day.

New Zealand bows out to strong United States at U-20 World Cup’s Round of 16

In an exciting Round of 16 match in the U20 World Cup, the United States secured a commanding 4-0 victory over New Zealand. The Junior All Whites faced a formidable opponent in the United States, whose superior technical quality proved to be too much for the Kiwis to handle. Although New Zealand had a promising early chance on a counterattack, with Jay Herdman testing the USA goalkeeper Gabriel Slonina, it was the only real threat they managed to create throughout the game.

The deadlock was broken early in the 14th minute when Owen Wolff’s shot found the back of the net. The New Zealand goalkeeper, Keems Sims, misjudged the trajectory of the ball, mistakenly assuming it would go out of bounds. Instead, it nestled into the bottom corner of the net, giving the United States the lead. Despite this setback, New Zealand continued to battle, with Sims making some impressive saves, including denying a well-executed finish by the United States following a corner.

New Zealand players before the match against USA in Mendoza – FIFA

In the second half, the United States further asserted their dominance by adding three more goals to their tally. Cade Cowell received a superb pass inside the 18-yard box and calmly finished past Sims to double the lead. Later, in a well-executed counterattack, Diego Luna showcased his skill as he went past Norman Garbett, and Cowell, after dribbling past the goalkeeper, delivered a precise cross into the penalty box. The initial clearance was made, but Justin Che was quick to pounce on the rebound and extend the lead to three goals.

In the 81st minute, another error from Sims proved costly for New Zealand. A free-kick was crossed into the box, and Sims misjudged the flight of the ball, allowing Rokas Pukštas of Hajduk Split to head it home and make it 4-0 for the United States.

Despite the disappointment of the heavy defeat, New Zealand should be proud of their campaign in the tournament. This was the fourth time the Junior All Whites reached the Round of 16, matching their best-ever performance. However, they were unable to progress further on this occasion. The United States, on the other hand, maintained their strong form and continued their journey into the quarterfinals. Notably, they remained the only team in the tournament yet to concede a goal, highlighting their defensive solidity and overall strength.

Georges Gope-Fenepej makes New Caledonia proud reaching another feat in French Football

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Georges Gope-Fenepej is one of the most successful Pacific Islanders in Oceania football history, just like Roy Krishna, his compatriot Jekob Jeno, Marama Vahirua and Brian Kaltak, he left the Pacific Islands to turn into professional football player. In Gope-Fenepej’s case he left for France after making history as he helped his New Caledonian national team to eliminate New Zealand for the first time in the 2012 OFC Nations Cup – ultimately losing the grand final to Tahiti by 1-0.

In France he already went to big stages: ESTAC Troyes was his first stop, being the first player to have worn the jersey of the New Caledonia national team to play in Ligue 1, the top-tier of French football. The striker kept himself in Troyes for two seasons and a half where in the period he was loaned to US Boulogne before moving to Amiens in 2015. At Amiens he achieved the incredible feat of climbing with the team from the National (third division) to Ligue 1, participating in the team’s entire journey. He then moved to Le Mans where he again achieved promotion from the National to Ligue 2.

Now at 34 years of age the New Caledonian legend has written another great chapter in his carreer by helping Concarneau win the Championnat National and getting then promoted to Ligue 2 for the first time in its history, after joining the club back in 2021.

Gope-Fenepej (right) playing for Concarneau this season – Concarneau Media

In the current season Gope-Fenepej has played 18 of a possible 34 games contributing with one assist and starting 29% of the matches. He became the third player born in New Caledonia to win a title in France, after icons Christian Karembeu and Antoine Kombouaré who played for the French national team when there was no national team in the archipelago.

At 34 years of age it will take us a while to know what will be the fate of his career now, whether he will continue at Concarneau even though he lost a lot of space in the team at the end of the season, whether he will look for another club in the National or if even a return to his homeland in on the cards.

The Oceania Football Center congratulates Gope-Fenepej for his brilliant career and achievement, and may he inspire more players from New Caledonia and the Pacific Islands to pursue their goals in becoming professional football players.