Junior Fordney, the recent signing of Labasa FC, made an immediate impact by scoring the winning goal in a hard-fought 2-1 victory against Nadroga. The Solomon Islands international, who previously played for Central Coast FC back in his country and Nadi in the Digicel Fiji Premier League, couldn’t have asked for a better start with his new club.
In an exclusive interview with Oceania Football Center, the 24-year-old shared his thoughts on his debut and the crucial goal that secured the win for his team.
“To score the winning goal, I am so happy as it’s my debut for the club,” said Fordney. His joy was evident as he discussed his contribution to Labasa’s success in the match.
Junior Fordney after the match with Labasa fans
When asked about the team’s prospects in the national league, given that Labasa is currently second on the table with the same number of points as the leader Rewa, Fordney emphasized a measured approach.
“Everyone wants to win, but we take one game at a time,” he stated, reflecting the team’s focus and determination.
Fordney’s positive attitude and impressive performance bode well for Labasa as they continue their campaign in the Digicel Fiji Premier League. Fans and teammates alike will be looking forward to seeing more from this talented forward as the season progresses.
New Caledonia grabbed their first win in the tournament while New Zealand secured a commanding 5-0 victory over Samoa to proceed to the knockout stage on the second matchday of Group B at the OFC U-19 Men’s Championship in Apia, Samoa.
New Caledonia bounced back with a crucial victory against Papua New Guinea in a match filled with drama and tight tussles. Both teams entered the contest winless after defeats to New Zealand and Samoa, adding pressure to their pursuit of a positive result.
New Caledonia started brightly, with Paul Qaeze getting into open field and forcing a save from Daniel Sakora. Yann Wahaga’s powerful header from the resulting corner hit the post, signaling New Caledonia’s early intent. Despite Papua New Guinea’s attempts to counter, New Caledonia’s defense held firm, turning a clearance into a long ball that saw Qaeze beat the goalkeeper but fire just wide of the empty goal.
A sloppy tackle from Nelson Karaun on Jythrim Upa gifted New Caledonia a penalty, but Sakora made a fantastic save to deny Wahaga, marking yet another missed penalty in the tournament. Papua New Guinea’s best chance came just before half-time when Solomon Kamake’s promising run into the box ended with an under-hit pass that was intercepted.
New Caledonia finally broke the deadlock in added time with Qaeze’s terrific strike, curling the ball into the top corner after a fortunate bounce. They continued to press in the second half, with Upa’s attempt denied by Sakora, who put his body on the line to make the save. As the rain poured down, both teams resorted to long balls, with Gabin Rachel and Papua New Guinea substitute keeper Lomani Nahiet making crucial saves.
Papua New Guinea found an equalizer through Tonny Sagana, who capitalized on a defensive error and scored into an empty net after colliding with Rachel. However, New Caledonia had the final say as Antonie Simane went unmarked at a free kick, dribbling past multiple defenders and perfectly placing the ball into the back of the net.
New Caledonia will aim to finish their group stage on a positive note against Samoa, while Papua New Guinea faces elimination regardless of their result against New Zealand.
Meanwhile, New Zealand cruised to a comfortable 5-0 victory against hosts Samoa, securing their spot in the semi-finals. The defending champions caught Samoa off guard early, with Luke Supyk forcing a save from Joel Bartley that tipped the ball onto the crossbar. New Zealand’s early dominance paid off when Codey Phoenix scored a great half volley following a right-side cross.
New Zealand and New Caledonia players celebrate – OFC Media
Phoenix doubled his tally shortly after, with his high curling corner beating everyone, including the goalkeeper. Samoa struggled to find their footing as the Kiwis continued their onslaught. Fergus Gillion added a third with a smart finish after a great run and assist from Lachlan Candy.
The second half saw limited action initially, but New Zealand reignited the game around the 60th minute. Nathan Walker’s shot narrowly missed the back post, while Bartley made a point-blank save to deny Supyk from Partridge’s delightful cross. New Zealand’s fourth goal came from Partridge, who smashed home a rebound following Supyk’s flick-on.
Samoa couldn’t break down New Zealand’s sturdy defense, and a late own goal sealed the Kiwis‘ dominant performance. The result makes New Zealand the first team to clinch a semi-final spot, while Samoa faces a decisive winner-takes-all match against New Caledonia on Friday.
Fiji national team and Navua Football Association midfielder Thomas Dunn will head to Australia this Sunday for a trial with Sydney FC.
This exciting opportunity was confirmed by Bula Boys team manager Kartik Reddy to Fijian local media, who highlighted the significance of Dunn showcasing his talents on a larger stage and potentially securing a spot with the A-League team. “He will be attending training sessions and playing in friendly matches during his stay with the club from July 8 to 19,” said Reddy. He praised Dunn’s emergence as an exceptional football talent and a beacon of hope for aspiring athletes in Fiji, adding, “His remarkable journey, both on and off the field, has captivated fans and earned him recognition for the trials with the Australian professional soccer club based in Sydney, New South Wales.”
Fiji FA will take on all responsibilities for Dunn’s trials in Sydney. “Fiji Football Association is assisting Dunn in terms of his welfare during his stay with the club. Fiji FA is thankful to its affiliate partners in Australia AUFFI and Fiji FA Liaison in Australia, Mr. Nick Sharma, for accepting to provide necessary support to the player while in Sydney for the trials.” Fiji FA President Rajesh Patel, CEO Mohammed Yusuf, and the entire Fiji FA Board wish Dunn all the best for the trials, backing his potential to become the second Fijian professional player alongside Roy Krishna currently.
Thomas Dunn – OFC Media
Born on January 19, 2003, Dunn developed a love for football early on, growing up in Togoru, Navua. Standing at 172 cm tall and weighing 64 kg, Dunn has displayed versatility on the field, excelling as both a midfielder and a striker. His football career took off when he joined Navua FC, representing his district with passion and skill. His debut in the district team marked the beginning of a series of accomplishments at the national level. Dunn progressed through the U16, U17, and U20 national teams, consistently showcasing his talent and earning a well-deserved spot in the national team. Recently, he represented his country at the OFC Nations Cup, scoring three goals in the process.
Dunn’s consistent performances, outstanding leadership abilities, and dedication to the sport quickly caught the attention of the Sydney FC coaching panel. His playing style is characterized by exceptional technical abilities, vision, and versatility. His speed, agility, and precision passing make him a potent attacking threat, while his defensive awareness ensures that he remains an asset in the midfield. Known for his ability to create scoring opportunities, Dunn has become an indispensable member of the Fiji national team’s lineup.
Tahiti clinched very important three points after edging Vanuatu 1-0 at the OFC U-19 Men’s Championship 2024 in Samoa. The victory, marked by Franck Papaura’s crucial goal, keeps Tahiti’s hopes alive in the tournament.
The match began with an early opportunity for Tahiti when a cross struck the hand of Vanuatu’s Jean Patriano Natou, resulting in a penalty just 12 minutes in. Unfortunately for Tahiti, Papaura’s spot kick sailed over the crossbar. Despite this miss, Papaura continued to pose a threat, later scuffing a shot wide after a ball was clipped across the 18-yard box.
Tahiti dominated the first half, with a notable free kick from Cedovan Taniel forcing a great low save from Vanuatu’s goalkeeper Joseph Nakou. However, the teams went into the break with the score still 0-0.
Vanuatu started the second half strongly, with Sergio Waoute leading a quick counterattack that tested Tahiti goalkeeper Keahinui Heinis. Waoute had another chance to put Vanuatu ahead but, after rounding Heinis, he could not compose himself and shot wide.
Tahiti and Vanuatu team captains Bennett and Maliwan battle for the ball – OFC Media
Desperate for a winning goal, Tahiti found their breakthrough. Papaura, a member of Tahiti’s senior national team that secured a bronze medal at the last OFC Nations Cup, latched onto a fine cross from Bradley Ruiz at the near post, steering his shot past Nakou to make it 1-0.
Papaura had a chance to double his tally but could only manage a shot directly at Nakou after being found free in the box following another cross.
The victory leaves Tahiti needing a result against the Solomon Islands to advance, while Vanuatu, with two defeats, find themselves in a precarious position. They now need a win against Fiji and must rely on other results going their way on Thursday to have any chance of progressing.
Solomon Islands took a significant step towards securing a semi-final spot with a commanding 3-0 victory over Fiji in the OFC U-19 Men’s Championship 2024.
The stakes were high, with both teams aware that a win would put them on six points and on the path to the final four. The match began with intensity, as James Laena of the Solomon Islands had the first notable chance, but his shot flew over the crossbar due to an unfortunate bobble.
Jayroll Patty’s deflected shot soon after forced a save from Fiji’s goalkeeper Illisoni Koro, who parried it to Laena, but once again, the striker couldn’t convert. Laena continued to be a threat, breaking through the offside trap, only to send his shot straight at Koro.
Fiji’s first real opportunity came in the 21st minute when captain Penisoni Tirau went one-on-one with Solomon Islands’ Gideon Abidan, but he failed to chip it over the onrushing goalkeeper.
The Solomon Islands’ pressure finally paid off just before halftime. Billy Afi scored a beautiful free kick from the edge of the box, placing it perfectly into the bottom corner. The team doubled their lead just before the break, with Jimson Abana rising above two defenders to head the ball over Koro and into the net.
Solomon Islands players celebrate one of their goals – OFC Media
The second half saw the humid conditions slow the pace, allowing Fiji to find some footing in the match. Substitute Eparama Moraica provided a spark, creating a golden opportunity for Tirau, who laid it back to Moraica, only for him to miss from close range.
Solomon Islands sealed their emphatic victory in the 83rd minute when Abana scored a stunning scissor kick, his second goal of the match. This triumph places the Solomon Islands in a strong position heading into their final group stage match against Tahiti on Thursday. Fiji, on the other hand, will look to regroup for their final match against Vanuatu.
Vanuatu’s national football team players have received substantial financial rewards for their performance in the OFC Nations Cup. Each player was awarded VT190,000 for their efforts, as reported by the Vanuatu Daily Post. The value converted into US Dollars is around U$ 1.580.
“The Vanuatu Football Federation (VFF) confirmed the payment as a recognition of the players’ hard work and commitment during the competition,” stated the Vanuatu Daily Post. The bonuses are seen as a significant gesture to boost the morale and motivation of the team as they prepare for future tournaments. It was added that “the payments were sourced through the sponsorship from Prince Albert II of Monaco facilitated by the Ministry of Finance, and the Vanuatu Football Federation (VFF)“.
The financial reward was facilitated by the government, acknowledging the team’s impressive display at the Nations Cup. “The Minister of Youth and Sports, Honorable Tomker Netvunei, expressed his gratitude towards the players for their dedication and hard work,” noted the Vanuatu Daily Post.
Vanuatu players with their silver medals – OFC Media
The Vanuatu team had a commendable run in the OFC Nations Cup, making it to the semi-finals and showcasing their growing talent and competitive spirit. This achievement has been met with widespread praise, with the government and the VFF taking active steps to support and encourage the national team.
“This financial reward is a testament to the government’s and the federation’s commitment to developing football in Vanuatu and ensuring that the players’ efforts do not go unnoticed,” highlighted the Vanuatu Daily Post. The VFF’s decision to award these bonuses underscores their dedication to bolstering the national team’s morale as they look ahead to future competitions.
John Orobulu, the talented 23-year-old striker from the Solomon Islands, has made headlines with his unexpected decision to join Rewa FC in Fiji, despite previously stating his commitment to Southern United FC in the Telekom S-League.
The release of Orobulu’s International Transfer Certificate (ITC) by the Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) facilitated his transfer to Rewa. This development came as a surprise to team president Alaha, who had been assured by the player of his continued commitment to Southern United. In a statement to Oceania Football Center, Alaha expressed his astonishment at Orobulu’s departure, revealing that the player had left Honiara unexpectedly to join the Fijian side.
John Orobulu training with Solomon Islands national team – SIFF Media
Oceania Football Center will seek further explanations from all parties involved to provide a comprehensive update on the situation. The reasons behind Orobulu’s change of heart remain unclear, and clarifications are needed to understand why the player left his former team after affirming his intention to stay.
Orobulu’s debut for Rewa has added a new chapter to his career, and his performance in the Digicel Fiji Premier League will be closely watched by Solomon Islands’ fans after his superb performances for both Southern United and Solomon Islands national team. As the story unfolds, further insights into the circumstances surrounding his transfer will be crucial in shedding light on this unexpected turn of events.
Labasa FC’s new additions from the Solomon Islands, Junior Fordney and Tigi Molea, made a remarkable debut in their 2-1 victory over Nadroga in the Digicel Fiji Premier League. The match saw both players making an immediate impact, showcasing their skills and contributing to Labasa’s strong position in the league.
Nadroga took an early lead with a goal from Stewart Toata, another talented player from the Solomon Islands. Toata’s goal in the first half set the stage for an exciting match. However, Labasa’s veteran player Christopher Wasasala leveled the score from the penalty spot in the second half, demonstrating his composure and experience.
The highlight of the match was Junior Fordney’s decisive goal, which secured the win for Labasa. Fordney, coming from Central Coast in the Telekom S-League, showed his quality by scoring the crucial second goal, which ultimately became the winner. His performance shows that Labasa’s management did it right to sign the player, having an immediate impact.
Fordney and Molea upon arrival in Fiji
Tigi Molea, joining from Solomon Warriors, also had a solid debut, contributing to Labasa’s overall performance. The inclusion of these two players from the Solomon Islands has undoubtedly strengthened Labasa’s squad, as they now sit second in the Digicel Fiji Premier League ladder, in the race for the top that is now occupied by Rewa.
Another Solomon Islander signed recently for Labasa; the midfielder Atkin Kaua still didn’t debut for the Babasiga Lions, but he is expected to join the squad soon making him available for the upcoming team duties.
The football community in Papua New Guinea is in mourning following the untimely passing of Lae City FC player Walbo Komuna on July 3rd. The 29-year-old full-back was a key figure in Lae City FC’s recent successes and was set to make his sixth consecutive season with the club.
Komuna’s death has led to an outpouring of grief from teammates and fans alike. Alwin Komolong, the captain of the Papua New Guinea national team and a defender based in Australia, expressed his sorrow on social media. Lae City FC also shared a heartfelt message on their social media platforms:
“Today the Lae City FC and its management is in great sorrow for the loss of one of its key players, the late Walbo Komuna who passed away earlier in the week. We would like to confirm that until the untimely passing away of Walbo Komuna, he was an integral team member of Lae City FC. Late Walbo played his final season with Lae City FC bowing out of the quarter final last season (2023). He joined the club in 2019 as a midfielder and pushed to the flanks then finally settling down holding the turf at the Lae City FC’s backline. Late Walbo rose to the occasion with Lae City FC participating in the 2020 OFC Qualifiers in Vanuatu then in 2022 OFC Qualifiers in New Zealand.”
Ronald Warisan, the captain of Lae City FC, also paid tribute to Komuna, highlighting his dedication and character:
“Late Walbo stood out amongst the rest to be different, staying away from drugs and alcohol and had little time to socialize with his peers. Knowing Walbo was in front of him at the goalmouth came down to trust and it all goes back to late Walbo’s humbleness and commitment to the team both on and off the field. He has been with us all throughout the fight, even when he was down. The reality of his absence has already sipped in and he is an asset to the team to be missed forever,” Warisan said.
Komuna in Lae City FC’s colours – LCFC Media
Komuna was not only known for his skills on the field but also for his leadership off it. From a mixed parentage of Nabak in Morobe and the Central province, he grew up at the University of Technology, eventually rising to captain the Unitech-based Sobou FC while playing for Lae City FC.
The loss of Walbo Komuna is deeply felt across the football community in Papua New Guinea, and his contributions to Lae City FC will be remembered for years to come.
The OFC U-19 Men’s Championship continued in Apia, Samoa, with defending champions New Zealand and hosts Samoa securing impressive victories in their Group B debut matches. New Zealand showcased their dominance with a 3-0 win over New Caledonia, while Samoa celebrated a famous 3-1 triumph against Papua New Guinea.
In the first match of the day, New Zealand kicked off their Group B campaign with a commanding performance against New Caledonia. Auckland City attacker Stipe Ukich set the tone early, registering two shots on target. New Caledonia’s goalkeeper was initially up to the challenge, but their defense eventually succumbed to pressure.
New Zealand broke the deadlock in the 18th minute when New Caledonia defender Jythrim Upa was penalized for handball in the box. Ukich confidently converted the penalty, leaving goalkeeper Gabin Rachel helpless. Minutes later, Ukich found the net again, but the goal was disallowed due to a foul in the box.
The match saw some intense moments, including a dangerous tackle by Upa on Tze Xuan Loke, which resulted in a yellow card and Loke’s early exit due to an ankle injury. Ukich continued to torment New Caledonia’s defense, setting up Ryan Watson for a simple tap-in to double New Zealand’s lead.
Shortly after halftime, New Zealand extended their advantage to 3-0. Daniel Makowem delivered a precise cross to Keegan Kelly, who skillfully guided the ball past Rachel. Despite New Caledonia’s efforts to respond, including a near-miss by Joseph Hnaissilin, New Zealand maintained control and secured a comfortable victory.
Both teams now look forward to their next matches, with New Zealand set to face hosts Samoa, and New Caledonia taking on Papua New Guinea.
In the second match of the day, hosts Samoa delighted their fans with a 3-1 win over Papua New Guinea. Papua New Guinea had a golden opportunity to take the lead early on, but striker Johnson Belle missed a crucial chance from close range.
Samoa’s German-based striker Pharrell Trainor was a constant threat, but Papua New Guinea’s defense managed to keep him at bay for most of the first half. As the break approached, Samoa’s captain Trainor opened the scoring with a composed finish past Daniel Sakora. Trainor nearly doubled his tally moments later, but Sakora made a crucial save.
Samoa and New Zealand grabbed important wins at their debut in the tournament – OFC Media
Papua New Guinea responded with a counterattack, with Jason Goble-Lote’s effort denied by Samoa’s goalkeeper Joel Bartley. In the second half, Trainor struck again, dribbling past two defenders before slotting the ball into the bottom corner to make it 2-0.
Papua New Guinea quickly pulled one back through Nalau Moses, whose deflected shot found the back of the net. The match continued at a frenetic pace, with both teams creating chances. Samoa’s Juan Gobbi sealed the victory with a powerful shot past Sakora, and he nearly added a second in added time.
Samoa’s win sets up an intriguing clash with New Zealand, while Papua New Guinea will aim to bounce back against New Caledonia.
The second day of the OFC U-19 Men’s Championship showcased the talent and determination of the competing teams, promising more exciting matches to come as the tournament progresses.
Oceania Football Center 