OFC Insider Issue 15

2018/02

Jacquemet vs. Vicelich A World Cup showdown Kayara’s golden journey OFC U-19 Championship Programme Remembering Emmie

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AS WE HEAD INTO THE SECOND HALF OF THE YEAR IT IS WITH GREAT PRIDE THAT I PEN THIS FIRST MESSAGE TO THE FOOTBALL COMMUNITY AS OFC PRESIDENT.

T

he on-field exploits of our teams across the region

Already we have seen, and I have experienced, the oppor-

has continued to shine a spotlight on the strides

tunities which two places in the FIFA U-20 and U-17 World

being made in developing the beautiful game

Cups can create for our Member Associations.

across Oceania.

In Tahiti, perhaps it will be an older, wiser, more experiHowever, it is no secret that off the field the Confedera-

enced New Caledonia side who repeat the exploits of the

tion and its Member Associations have been experience a

team from two years ago during the U-17 regional champi-

tumultuous time.

onship.

The departure of the both the former President David

Perhaps it will be a different nation getting set to make

Chung, and long-serving General Secretary Tai Nicholas

their World Cup debut in 12 months’ time.

within a few months of each other led to some instability.

But I am pleased to say that we are back on track.

No matter the outcome of the OFC U-19 Championship, and the OFC U-16 Championship which will follow in

I am honoured that my peers chose me to lead them dur-

Solomon Islands in September the experience alone will be

ing this difficult time. I am committed to the betterment

life-changing for these young boys and I would like to be

of football, and our communities, across the Pacific and I

the first to wish them the best of luck for these upcoming

believe that together we can take Oceania into the future.

events.

Over the next couple of months we will see the region’s

Yours in football,

best young talents in action and this is the first step towards a brighter future.

Lambert Maltock

IN THIS ISSUE It’s almost impossible to talk about football in 2018 without referencing the FIFA World Cup RussiaTM. To get a different perspective of one of the most talked about event’s of the year, we sat down with former All White Ivan Vicelich and OFC Technical Director Patrick Jacquemet.

Both have roots in Croatia and France respectively, making a debate around the outcome of the final interesting to say the least.

4 - 11 Jacquemet vs. Vicelich / France vs. Croatia. Two key figures in Oceania football debate the final of the FIFA World Cup RussiaTM, and all that was great about this year’s tournament.

12-15 The OFC Champions League Golden Ball winner Roy Kayara has found a new home, and with it a new family, with the newest regional club champions Team Wellington.

We have also taken advantage of this issue to preview some of the events we have coming up in the region.

First up we have the OFC U-19 Championship Qualifier and we’ve incorporated all the key information in one place - a tournament programme if you like - ahead of kick-off in Tahiti on 5 August.

We also take a sneak peak at how the OFC Women’s Nations Cup Qualifier is shaping up, with a young Fijian player putting her name on our radar already.

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Football has always had a way of extending

The official programme for the OFC U-19 Cham-

across boundaries and the visit from a Section

pionship embedded neatly within this latest

Sportive from Tahiti has shown that. More than just a sports exchange, but a cultural experience

edition of the OFC Insider.

too.

Finally, we pay homage to our dear friend and colleague Emmie Sope who’s untimely passing has left us all shaken.

If you have a story you would like to share with the OFC Insider, please let us know. We have staff in each of the OFC Member Associations who are keen to share the stories and achievements of our people as we grow and develop football together.

To contact the OFC Insider, email us: media@oceaniafootball.com

38-39 A brief look at the upcoming OFC Women’s Nations Cup Qualifiers and what’s in store for the four nations hoping to join the remaining OFC Member Associations in New Caledonia come November.

Official Publication of the Oceania Football Confederation The views expressed in signed articles are not necessarily the official views of the OFC. The reproduction of articles published in the OFC Insider is authorised, provided the source is indicated.

Produced by: OFC Media & Communications Photography: OFC Media / Phototek / FIFA via Getty Images Cover Photo: FIFA via Getty Images

42 A brief pictorial review of Team Wellington’s journey in the 2018 OFC Champions League, where they proved fourth times a charm when it comes to getting your hands on the silverware.

Oceania Football Confederation Headquarters, 12 Maurice Road, Penrose, Auckland 1061, New Zealand Tel: +64 9 531 4096 Fax: +64 9 529 5143 Email: media@oceaniafootball.com Website: www.oceaniafootball.com

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OFC INSIDER

A WORLD CUP SHOWDOWN They could debate the outcome of the FIFA World Cup

extra time, and penalties. In terms of physically and

final for hours, but one thing Patrick Jacquemet and Ivan

mentally it’s pretty tough for the players,” Jacquemet

Vicelich can agree on is how good Russia 2018 has been for

said.

football the world over.

“I think if Croatia hadn’t played all these extra minute, if they’d arrived at their physical strength, it could have

Jacquemet, OFC Technical Director and former

been very different. They were too tired, you can see.”

professional, is a France-native while former All White and FIFA Legend Vicelich has familial roots in Croatia – giving

Vicelich agreed saying it had to of had an effect. But

them plenty to compare when they sat down together at

whether they won or lost that final encounter, the sense

the OFC Academy in Auckland, New Zealand post-final.

that Croatia had achieved something incredible has already been achieved.

First on the agenda, just a wee match at Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow on 15 July between France and Croatia, otherwise

“Generally the Croatian team always has very good

known as the World Cup final.

players that play in the top teams around Europe, but

The two countries had completely different runs to the final. France saw off Argentina, Uruguay and Belgium while

they have not quite hit the heights that are expected, apart from in 1998 World Cup when they won the Bronze Medal,” Vicelich said.

Croatia were taken to the limit by Denmark and Russia

“They struggled in the qualifiers after starting the

winning both penalty shoot-outs and needed extra time to

campaign well. They replaced their coach with Zaltko

see off England.

Dalic with one must-win game of the qualifiers left, he then led them to convincing play-off wins against Greece.

By the time they made it to the final Croatia had played 90 minutes, a full match, more than their opponent France

“During the tournament, you know you need to perform

which was bound to have taken a toll.

well, but you need that little bit of luck as well. Penalty

“They play three games at this level with the pressure,

shoot-outs can always go 50-50. A couple went there way.

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5

“There were some games where they could have won it in normal time, they sort of deserved it, you know? Like the England game, they played really well in normal time and they had the chance to close the game.

“France, it always seemed like they were able to

“I WAS WAITING FOR FRANCE.”

turn it on. They were one of the favourites before the tournament and they played a little bit of a different style than I thought, not as dominant as they could be with those players.”

Jacquemet, though it’s hard to admit as a proud

was ok, but 4-3 it’s still…Uruguay I thought they managed. Strong, well organised. Cavani was not there

Frenchman, has to agree with Vicelich in that he too

so a bit lucky in that sense. But the best game was

was waiting on a sensational performance from Les

Belgium.

Bleus.

“I always thought that if you want to win a tournament you have to do one or two fantastic games. This is the reference, and you win the competition.

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“The first three games in the Group Stage, Argentina

OFC INSIDER

“Belgium in the first half was on top, but France came back.

“I think against Croatia was one of the poorer games that France did, especially in the first half. They were

not controlling, then you have this penalty which for me was not appropriate, but it was the year to win – no Spain, Germany out, Italy not there.”

Vicelich said probably the hardest part of losing the final to France was the first two goals.

“I think for Croatia it was the way the first two goals were conceded. So called “soft goals” from situations where they weren’t outplayed, the penalty and own goal were moments that when they happen to you in a final it makes that task even harder.

“You come out and you don’t touch the ball you can kind of understand alright, but this game, those first two goals, they leave a question mark,” Vicelich said.

“They took the game to France more than I thought they would, they did that well. But when you have those kinds of goals against you, then once the third one went in it felt like it was close to over.”

Like we said, they can talk about this match for hours. But the World Cup wasn’t just about who would lift the trophy.

“Expectations are always high I think. To see the joy, to see how well the country has celebrated them just shows how connected football makes everyone.

“Passionate, inspirational, it’s great for the country,” Vicelich said.

Jacquemet agreed that this World Cup has once again shown how football can unite.

“I saw when they celebrate when

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the teams, Croatia and France, arrived home. It changed the mind of people. In France, millions of people. Before, strikes, fights. When you win – all these different multicultural identities feel as one family, they were proud French people and it’s pleasing to see this kind of unite because of football,” he said.

“Both teams I think have inspired a lot of kids. It gives hope to everyone, football. It gives hope especially for countries like Croatia.

“Football is a religion.”

Both men are committed football fanatics. Of course, as former professionals they’re ensconced in the game. But it’s about more than just being a former player or a coach.

The World Cup, for everyone, is an experience.

I’m a New Zealander so my team’s not there, but my family’s team are

“NO, IT’S GOT TO BE LIVE”

there,” Vicelich said.

“It’s just sort of grown as Croatia has gone on. I started getting

hemisphere where kick-offs are much

of course it’s very difficult. But I

messages, ‘We could go all the

more suitable hours, Jacquemet

don’t like to watch the replay,”

way’, and you start watching with

said the adjustment of engaging in

Jacquemet stated.

more and more people in different places in Auckland, strange times of the night. It brings the community

a World Cup from Down Under has been strange.

“No, it’s got to be live,” Vicelich seconded.

together.

“I’m French, I left France at 28 for “But it’s good for New Zealand as

Tahiti so I’m always connected with

well. We had about 500 people at

France. But my job and life are here

the Croatian Community Centre at

in the Oceania region. It’s sad to be

two-three am for the semi-final. You

by yourself, at three in the morning

can’t drink, it’s a weird time, you

and you receive a text. I was missing

can’t sleep so you have coffee, and

the connections,” he said.

you celebrate with people you don’t necessarily know that well. But it’s a great way for communities to bond.”

But you can’t replace the thrill of a live match, no matter what time it kicks off where you are.

Having grown up in the northern

“Getting up at three in the morning,

Which is why he was adamant his kids would be getting up alongside him.

“The kids, they’re six and ten, they love football. I tried to make sure they got up because they’re definitely going to remember it,” he said.

“From what I remember when I was young, I want to make sure they

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9

experienced that, that they remember that. Especially when a special run for Croatia, or even New Zealand, because it will inspire them.”

Jacquemet said that’s the power of the World Cup. “The passion starts like that, watching these games.

Your kids know they are linked to Croatia as well. My daughters, it’s the same. They have no clue about football, they’re not so passionate, but after the group stage they’re going to school and talking about France. They’re proud, they start to understand.”

“I think for me, I don’t know for Ivan, what I learned is not so much in terms of football, but in terms of values and team spirit,” Jacquemet said.

The pair also discussed exactly what it takes to create a champion team.

“You can see Croatia, these guys came to fight for the shirt, Iceland is the same. They are 300,000 people and they are so proud to fight for their country.

“Coming back to France, you have all these ethnicities.

They are all French but have roots in many other parts of the world, but at the end of the day, the coach selects the people who will work well together. It was clearly a group, not just a few individuals.

I think, France it’s one of the biggest countries, but a tiny country like Croatia it’s all about the values and it’s good for our sport because you have so many moments where it’s all about individuals.”

“People would have been looking at the sport science “I think you’re right,” Vicelich added.

“It shows team culture and values are just as important as every other aspect. When you get to the highest level, as you’ve said, there’s five or six teams there that the difference is very minimal so those factors become quite crucial.

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OFC INSIDER

side of it, saying ‘oh they’ve been to penalties in all these games that’s not good’. But the team culture and that side of it is really important.

“It also proves that the management side of coaching or the environment is very important. How they manage the big egos, the players on huge money, at big clubs, they need to manage different aspects of every player

and keep harmony within the squads.”

“It’s about what French football is doing in terms of development – the coaching education, coaching

As for what this means for Oceania? Both Vicelich and Jacquemet believe the World Cup has shown the region is not completely in the dark.

pathways, player pathways.

“In this way I am very happy, as a fan of course, but as a technical person because it reinforces what we are trying to develop with pathways here in Oceania. When

“It’s not really about the win alone really,” Jacquemet

we focus a lot on educating people, it’s clearly what we

said.

need to be doing.”

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11

KAYARA ON TOP Roy Kayara has been bouncing around clubs across Oceania looking for a home for several seasons now.

Of course, he always seems to find his way back to Hienghene Sport, his home club in New Caledonia’s Northern Province.

However it’s this latest journey abroad which has widened his horizons like never before.

For the second time in his career, Kayara found himself based in New Zealand’s capital city playing for Team Wellington in both the domestic league and the OFC Champions League.

But this time around the 28-year-old said the experience was completely different.

“I arrived at Wellington with so much more experience this time,” the New Caledonia international said.

“I want to thank all the teams I’ve played with in the past.

All these experiences have taught me something and I am so pleased we’ve been able to go right to the end of this competition.”

The ‘going right to the end’ Kayara is referring to is Team Wellington’s unseating of nine-time regional champions Auckland City to become only the fifth club to lift the OFC Champions League trophy.

For Kayara it has been a dream come true.

“I came to Wellington to try and win this trophy and now, we’ve done it,” he said.

“I want to thank Team Wellington for having confidence in me, for bringing me here to win this trophy with them.”

Kayara said as well as taking out the title, the experience in general has been an enjoyable one for him.

“I would say to my family back home, being at Wellington is like being with Hienghene. I’m at home,” he explained.

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13

“ I’ve got great friends, we get

“I think that, it’s not just me, but

“Of course I’m happy.

along well and we have fun.

everyone listening to the coach and

“I thought of everyone who has

management got us to where we

helped me get to where I am today,

are today.

my family, coaches.

“I did my role of course, but

“There’s no other word to describe

everyone did their roles too.”

it but happy, because when you get

“That’s what makes the group better - stronger even - we get along well. We’re like a family.”

to the end and receive the icing on

For Kayara the familial element is important, and he believes it was the environment which helped him shine on a personal level.

It’s playing that role to perfection which resulted in the ultimate personal reward for Kayara - the tournament Golden Ball.

Having threatened to become a household name for so many years, Kayara’s journey with Team

“This year was difficult of course,” “When I heard my name called

Wellington has seen him earn column

out, I was shocked,” Kayara said of

inches usually reserved for the likes

“We worked hard as a team. We had

being announced the player of the

of George Gope-Fenepej or Cesar

some great matches and we didn’t

tournament.

Zeoula who are plying their trade in

he said.

lose a single match.

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the cake, you’re happy.”

OFC INSIDER

France.

“WHEN I HEARD MY NAME CALLED OUT, I WAS SHOCKED”

But the boy from the north is now equally deserving of role-model status in his native New Caledonia.

“I hope that the little brothers, the brothers of our country, will do something like me,” “I would like to think that one day when I stop, they will be there to take over.

“It’s a chance for us to show as Caledonians, we are capable. We are capable of being here.

“There’s no limit to what we can achieve - c’est Koi Theen.”

Kayara is back in New Caledonia for the winter season, but is expected to link back up with his Team Wellington family ahead of December’s FIFA Club World Cup.

OFC INSIDER

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TAHITIAN STUDENTS IMPRESS

A visit to Auckland Grammar School during a sporting

“The haka and the song, they were incredible. It’s great

exchange to New Zealand offered more than just your

to learn about a different culture and then also see

usual football experience for the students from the Section

how players from different countries are developed,”

Sportive de Mahina.

Auckland Grammar director of football and First XI coach Kris Bright said.

But while they were wowed by the school and its facilities, it was the cultural element they brought from French Polynesia which had their hosts left in awe..

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OFC INSIDER

Overall a fantastic experience and cultural exchange for all of the young footballers involved, as well as their coaches and chaperones.

OFC U-19 CHAMPIONSHIP The OFC U-19 Championship is always an exciting tournament for players and fans alike.

For the footballers taking part it is a chance to showcase their talents. If they put their best foot forward and become one of the two nations which progress to the FIFA U-20 World Cup, it is also going to be a potential stepping stone to the coveted life of professional football.

For fans, this competition offers up the rising talents of the region. It’s an opportunity to discover the future stars of the national teams, to get the inside line on who might be starring in the next edition of the OFC Nations Cup. No matter the outcome, this event will entertain. It will raise expectations, but it will also cause despair. and disappointment Get ready to ride the roller-coaster of emotions that come with following your football heart.

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GROUP A Tahiti [TAH] // Tonga [TGA] Papua New Guinea [PNG] // New Zealand [NZL]

Taking into account their previous results in regional youth tournaments, New Zealand are outright favourites to top Group A. While there has been much talk about the players who will be missing from the squad, Des Buckingham has still assembled a strong line-up.

Max Mata is back as is Charles Spragg, two players who played key roles in 2017, with Spragg picking up the Golden Ball for his efforts.

The Kiwis are defending champions at both U-16 and U-19 levels (previously U-17 and U-20) but their opponents shouldn’t be underestimated.

Tahiti, hosts of this year’s final competition, are previous winners at this level having taken out the title on home soil ten years ago.

After under-performing, by their own standard, in the 2016 and 2017 editions of Oceania’s youth events this side is determined to follow in the footsteps of their 2008 predecessors.

With a build-up that included competing in the local senior league, Tahiti’s U-19 are ready to prove they are a contender for the title.

They also have the services of five France-based players to call on, including Eddy Kaspard who impressed at U-17 level.

Papua New Guinea are another side that are keen to prove themselves on the regional stage.

This team features a number of familiar faces from the side which pushed New Zealand to the limit during the OFC U-17 Championship in February 2017.

After scoring an own goal and then an equaliser in the first half of semi-final, it took a winner in additional time for New Zealand to avoid a penalty shoot-out against Harrison Kamake’s side.

Like Tahiti, the majority of this team have spent the season playing against their senior counterparts in the local league as Besta United.

The side finished third in the standings and played threetime champions Lae City Dwellers in the National Soccer League final.

The final team in Group A is Tonga, a side riding high on their first victory in a Qualifier tournament.

Having come so close in the past, Tonga have finally been rewarded with passage to this final tournament and they

Defending champions, former champions and first-timers - Group A has a bit of everything on offer in 2018.

are keen to ensure they make the most of the experience.

It was a narrow victory for Tonga who progressed on goal difference ahead of Samoa and since qualifying in July they have been training regularly to ensure they are ready for the step up.

Australia-based Mo Rajani along with locally-based Atunaisa Namoa, Tevita Kau and Tuia Falepapalangi will be among the key members of Soane Mailangi’s squad.

GROUP B Solomon Islands [SOL] // Vanuatu [VAN] Fiji [FIJ] // New Caledonia [NCL]

Meanwhile Solomon Islands last year qualified for the Youth Olympic Games with their youth futsal team, and have appeared at both FIFA Futsal and Beach Soccer World Cups in the past.

With four nations who have tasted success at a regional level all included in Group B the competition for the top two places will be fierce.

New Caledonia’s consistent, determined approach in 2017 saw them finish as runners-up to New Zealand at U-17 level here in Tahiti.

While they have a new coach in charge, Felix Tagawa of Hienghene Sport fame, they also have a squad determined to make a return to the world stage.

Despite not joining the U-17 team in India after helping them qualify, Paul Gope-Fenepej is back in the national fold having since found a home in France with Poitiers FC. He’s the only member of the squad based off-shore, although Cyril Drawilo (formerly Nyipie) is expected to make the move once he’s completed his schooling.

However the team has talent and experience, with several members of the squad playing key roles for their clubs in the Super Ligue back home.

Like New Caledonia, Vanuatu are arriving in Tahiti with a strong desire to continue on to the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Poland.

The difference for Vanuatu, and it’s a similar one for Fiji, is they don’t have hugely experienced players to rely on.

The entire squad are playing in local competitions and while most of them have a regional youth tournament under their belt, that is the extent of their experience.

For Fiji it is the same.

Kishan Sami’s run with Lautoka FC to the final of the OFC Champions League makes him one of the squad’s more storied members.

Also among them is Ratu Dau who, although his memories of Tahiti aren’t particularly fond after a tournament ending injury last year, has made a strong rise since and was included in national coach Christophe Gamel’s recent friendly against Malaysia.

The final nation in the group is Solomon Islands who will arrive in Tahiti with some players familiar with the Polynesian nation, and a good number yet to discover its shores.

Fiji and Vanuatu have both experienced FIFA U-20 World Cups while New Caledonia made their U-17 World Cup debut last year in India.

Goalkeeper Joel Nanago, John Aeta, Junior Ashley and Aengari Gagame were part of a strong Solomon Islands defensive line in 2017 and they’ll be making their return in August.

Coach Batram Suri has made an effort to bring together the best players at his disposal so lining up alongside them will be some new faces including Spain-based midfielder Marcus Chan.

Whether they’ve had enough time to gel as a team remains to be seen, but what we do know is we should expect the usual Solomon Islands magic to shine.

TAHITI

2. Antonio FIU

DF

18/03/1999

AS Arue

After striking out with their U-17

3. Hennel TEHAAMOANA

DF

12/04/1999

AS Dragon

squad in 2017, Tahiti have put

4. Kavai’ei MORGANT

MF

08/10/2001

US Concarnoise [FRA]

in the hard yards to ensure this

5. Purutu NANUAITERAI

DF

07/09/1999

AS Tefana

U-19 side won’t make the same

6. Terai BREMOND

MF

16/05/2001

Toulouse FC [FRA]

mistakes.

7. Ramanui AMAU

FW

09/06/2000

AS Venus

8. Yann VIVI

MF

07/06/2000

AS JT

Firstly they’re making use of home

9. Eddy KASPARD

MF

27/05/2001

Trelissac FC [FRA]

advantage, and secondly the re-

10. Roonui TEHAU

FW

15/12/1999

AS Venus

turn of a number of France-based

11.Mauri HEITAA

DF

31/07/1999

AS Venus

players has bolstered an already

12. Hugo BOUBE

MF

24/11/1999

AS JT

tight-knit group.

13. Keali’i WONG

MF

07/06/1999

AS Erstein [FRA]

14. Tutehau TUFARIUA

MF

31/01/2000

AS Taiarapu

Coach Bruno Tehaamoana has

15, Hauragi HURI

MF

07/03/1999

AS Venus

worked hard at creating an envi-

16. Tevaearai TAMATAI

GK

15/01/2001

AS Venus

ronment where these players can

17. Rainui NORDMAN

FW

09/02/1999

AS JT

flourish, now it’s their chance to

18. Samuel LIPARO

DF

02/10/1999

US Concarnoise [FRA]

show us what they can achieve.

19. Orirau TEIHO

DF

17/05/1999

AS Pirae

20. Ariimana TAAROAMEA

MF

25/06/2000

AS Arue

And with the example set by the

23. Moana PITO

GK

25/01/2000

AS Tefana

class of 2008 to work towards, this squad has something concrete to

Coach: Bruno TEHAAMOANA (TAH)

strive for.

1.Semisi OTUKOLO

GK

23/06/1999

Veitongo FC

Tonga have overcome one big hurdle

2. Petueli TOKOTAHA

DF

10/09/2000

Navutoka FC

already just to see their flag flying

3. Sione TUIFANGALOKA

DF

25/04/1999

Veitongo FC

alongside that of their fellow nations

4. Ofa KITE

DF

26/04/2000

Veitongo FC

here in Tahiti.

5. Tevita VAKATAPU

DF

02/12/1999

Ha’amoko United FC

6. Vai LUTU

MF

30/09/1999

Veitongo FC

The players are fully aware of what lies

7. Tuia FALEPAPALANGI

NF

15/07/2000

Veitongo FC

ahead having seen Qualifier winners

8. Kalakaua FAIVAILO

NF

18/01/2001

Veitongo FC

struggle to make the step up in the

9. Tevita KAU

FW

11/03/2001

Mangia FC

past.

10. Mohammad RAJANI

MF

16/04/1999

Rockdale City Suns [AUS]

11. Viliami TUKIA

FW

07/01/2001

Ikale Kolomotu’a FC

12. Tevita SILI

MF

05/07/2000

Atele Old Boys FC

13. Opesi TU’IFANGALOKA

DF

21/07/2001

Lotoha’apai FC

14. Sione VA’ENUKU

DF

27/05/2000

Toula FC

15. Jacob KILMARTIN

MF

12/01/2001

Castro Valley AFC [USA]

16. Tellos KAUFUSI

MF

16/09/2000

Veitongo FC

17. Atunaisa NAMOA

FW

08/10/1999

Papatoetoe United [NZL]

19. Setafano VAOMO’UNGA

DF

02/08/2000

Marist FC

However this is a determined unit, a

20. Sionela LUI

GK

18/05/1999

Lavengatonga FC

side which plays for each other and

“Sometimes the underdogs rise, and the mighty fall.”

- Atuunausa Namoa

the pride of the nation meaning on Coach: Soane MAILANGI (TGA)

the day - anything is possible.

PAPUA NEW GUINEA 1.Baxter MORRIS

GK

24/12/1999

Besta United

Papua New Guinea have proven

2. Laventine MONUO

MF

05/04/1999

Southern Strikers

time and again they are a side

3. Kimson KAPAI

DF

18/08/2000

Besta United

which should never be ruled out.

4. Sylvester LUKE

DF

12/12/2000

Besta United

5. Freeman GIWI

MF

07/07/2000

Besta United

With many of this side graduating

6. Ricky WADUNAH

MF

20/12/2000

Besta United

from U-17 level - where they came

7. Emmanuel SIMONGI

MF

25/09/2000

Besta United

within minutes of an upset against

8. Stahl GUBAG

MF

17/07/1999

Madang FC

New Zealand in the semi-final -

9. Barthy KEROBIN

MF

13/09/2000

Besta United

coach Harrison Kamake is relatively

10. Oberth SIMON

MF

01/01/2001

Besta United

confident.

11. Yagi YASASA

MF

17/08/2000

Besta United

13. Cameron NUABI

FW

20/08/2000

Southern Strikers

15. Dinniget LUAINE

MF

16/05/2000

Besta United

16. Jonathan ALLEN

FW

03/01/2000

Besta United

17. Dopson NOI

DF

07/11/2000

Besta United

18. Wolfram GREGORY

MF

25/03/2000

Besta United

19. Abraham ALLEN

MF

25/12/2000

Besta United

They know this pool is tough. But

20. Graham BERIGAMI

GK

01/02/2000

Besta United

they have an approach they hope

“Our aim is to finish on top.”

-Harrison Kamake

will see them raise a few eyebrows Coach: Harrison KAMAKE

and, with some luck, cause a few

(PNG)

upsets too.

NEW ZEALAND

1.Cameron BROWN

GK

09/07/1999

Watemata FC

Based on previous results New

2. Jordan SPAIN

DF

05/03/2000

Cashmere Technical

Zealand of course come into this

3. Dino BOTICA

DF

08/06/1999

Bay Olympic

competition as one of the outright

4. Joe BELL

MF

27/04/1999

Charlottesville Alliance [USA] favourites.

5. Robert TIPELU

DF

04/10/1999

Onehunga Sports

6. Dane SCHNELL

MF

14/05/1999

Western Springs AFC

Coach Des Buckingham is new to

7. Matthew CONROY

FW

01/04/2001

Western Springs AFC

the national team set-up but has

8. Trevor ZWETSLOOT

MF

16/10/1999

SV Weder Bremen [GER]

assembled a strong squad from a

9. Max MATA

FW

10/07/2000

Onehunga Sports

range of locations across the coun-

10. Charles SPRAGG

FW

01/03/2000

Eastern Suburbs AFC

try and even further afield.

11. Willem EBBINGE

MF

06/01/2001

Wellington Phoenix

12. Zac JONES

GK

27/11/2000

Wellington Phoenix

There’s a strong foundation of

14. Jorge AKERS

FW

03/03/2000

Havelock North Wanderers

players who are not unfamiliar

15. Callan ELLIOT

MF

07/07/1999

Wairarapa United

with Tahiti, and success on French

16. Leon VAN DEN HOVEN

MF

20/04/2000

RKC Waalwijk [NED]

Polynesian soil.

17. Boyd CURRY

DF

06/03/2001

Onehunga Sports

18. Kingsley SINCLAIR

MF

25/02/2001

Eastern Suburbs AFC

But it is a new year, a new team

19. Oliver WHYTE

MF

20/01/2000

Wellington Phoenix

and a new challenge.

Coach: Des BUCKINGHAM (ENG)

New Zealand are prepared to put up a tactical challenge to counter anything their opponents take to them with.

OFC U-19 CHAM

2

TGA

NZL

VS

VS

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18:00

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TAH

3

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10

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SOL

FIJ

STADE FAUTAUA PAPEETE 4

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18:00

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NCL

VS

VS

FIJ

VAN

GROUP A

GROUP B

TAHITI

SOLOMON ISLANDS

TONGA

VANUATU

PAPUA NEW GUINEA

FIJI

NEW ZEALAND

NEW CALEDONIA

Friday, 10 August

Thursday, 9 August

Wednesday, 8 August 15:00

OFC PARTNER

R E S T D AY

STADE PATER PAPEETE

5

15:00

R E S T D AY

1

Tuesday, 7 August

Sunday, 5 August

Monday, 6 August

TAHITI #O

MPIONSHIP 2018

SEMI-FINAL 1

3RD/4TH PLAY-OFF

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Saturday, 18 August

Friday, 17 August

Thursday, 16 August

Wednesday, 15 August

Tuesday, 14 August

Monday, 13 August

Saturday, 11 August

Sunday, 12 August

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15:00 15

VS

NZL

A1

LOSER SF 1

VS

TGA

11

15:00

SOL VS

VAN 12

18:00

FIJ VS

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14

18:30

B1

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TAH

R E S T D AY S

18:00 VS

15:00

VS

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FINAL 16

18:00

WINNER SF 1

VS VS

A2

WINNER SF 2

SOLOMON ISLANDS 1. Joel NANAGO

GK

13/12/2000

Real Kakamora

The Solomon Islands are always so

2. George LEAGA

DF

18/11/1999

Kossa FC

close, yet so far, when it comes to

3. John AETA

DF

02/09/2000

Marist FC

regional youth tournaments.

4. Aengari GAGAME

DF

15/04/2000

Solomon Warriors

5. Absolom WAWANE

DF

01/01/2001

Malaita Kingz FC

Their talent on a football field is un-

6. Patrick TAROGA

MF

25/05/2000

Marist FC

questionable. But turning that talent

7. Junior DAVID

MF

22/09/2001

Marist FC

into results is not always as easy as it

8. Henly RAMO

MF

10/07/2000

Malaita Kingz FC

sounds.

9. Ali MEKAWIR

FW

27/07/2000

Naha FC

10. Marcus CHAN

MF

20/09/2000

CF Cracks [ESP]

11. Lino HOUAIRIA

MF

05/07/1999

Naha FC

12. Junior MATA

GK

02/10/2000

Marist FC

13. Junior ASHLEY

DF

24/09/2000

Naha FC

14. Frank KABUI

MF

23/10/2000

Malaita Kingz FC

15. Anthony KASAU

DF

15/08/2000

Marist FC

16. Don KEANA

MF

09/09/2000

Solomon Warriors

17. Tuita MAEOBIA

MF

02/01/1999

Henderson Eels FC

18. William KOMASI

DF

10/06/2000

Malaita Kingz FC

Former international Batram Suri has

19. Simon JEDZINI

MF

11/10/2000

Henderson Eels FC

assembled a squad that he believes

20. Raynick LAETA

FW

16/11/1999

Henderson Eels FC

has not only the ability, but also the

“Our current players are so gifted and have individual brilliance.”

- Eddie Rukumana

mentality to achieve success this time Coach: Batram SURI (SOL)

around.

VANUATU

1. Dgen LEO

GK

06/08/2000

Siaraga FC

On home soil two years ago, Vanua-

2. Tarilolo HINGE

DF

17/05/2000

Siaraga FC

tu earned passage to the FIFA U-20

3. Lorenzo OBED

DF

24/06/1999

Siaraga FC

World Cup.

4. Junior BULE

DF

30/01/1999

Siaraga FC

5. Julio VAHIRUA

DF

07/07/2000

Vaum United FC

For a football-mad nation like Vanuatu,

6. Tom SAKSAK

DF

08/05/2000

Vaum United FC

this was an incredible achievement

7. Jordy TASIP

FW

14/07/2000

Vaum United FC

8. Presley ALICK

MF

05/05/2000

As Concorde

The challenge for this young group

9. Jean-Claude BATICK

MF

13/03/2000

Vaum United FC

is to follow up the success of their

10. Micah TOMMY

FW

21/01/1999

Tafea FC

predecessors and make a return to the

11. Jayson TARI

MF

02/11/2000

Shepherds United FC

global stage.

12. Nelsin RAWOR

DF

08/02/2000

Vaum United FC

13. Brian TARI

DF

10/11/2000

Shepherds United FC

The squad come from a range of back-

14. Abert VANVA

FW

24/05/2000

Amicale FC

grounds with most having developed

15. Rhydley NAPAU

MF

03/05/2000

Mauwia FC

either in Port Vila or Luganville.

16. Jack WILLIE

MF

27/02/2000

Amicale FC

17. Zidane MAGUEKON

MF

03/06/2000

Vaum United FC

The present a united front and will

18. Anthony PELI

FW

11/11/1999

AS Concorde

without doubt be keen to make an-

19. Waiwo KALMET

DF

26/04/1999

Tafea FC

other statement about the power of

20. Joshua WILLIE

GK

13/06/2000

United Malampa FC

football development in Vanuatu.

Coach: Kaison MAKI (VAN)

FIJI

1. Mohammed ALAM

GK

08/02/2000

Navua FC

Fiji have been preparing well in order

2. Mohammed RASASA

DF

29/12/1999

Labasa FC

to make a big impact on this tourna-

3. Semi MATALAU

MF

17/02/2001

Lautoka FC

ment.

4. Apisai SESEWA

FW

18/12/1999

Nadogo FC

5. Sekove NAIVAKANANUMI

DF

06/07/1999

Nadi FC

Camps at home have been followed

6. Mohammed NAIZAL

MF

02/03/2000

Rewa FC

by a pre-event tour of Australia where

7. Phillip LEONG

MF

11/12/2000

Suva FC

results saw them pick up three wins

8. Joeli RANITU

DF

14/04/1999

Ba FC

and a loss.

9. Merrill NAND

MF

22/09/2000

Lautoka FC

10. Mohammed KHAN

MF

22/11/1999

Rewa FC

11. Mannav PERMAL

MF

27/11/1999

Suva FC

12. Kishan SAMI

“The boys remain focused on the purpose.”

- Bal Reddy

DF

13/03/2000

Ba FC

13. Savenaca BALEDROKDROKA MF

20/05/1999

Rewa FC

14. Tito VODOWAQA

FW

09/04/2000

Nadi FC

15. Iliesa RAKUKA

MF

11/04/2000

Labasa FC

16. Ratu DAU

FW

06/05/2000

Tavua FC

17. Shivam NAIDU

MF

24/03/2000

Lautoka FC

That will certainly have an impact on

18. Isake NADUVU

DF

06/05/1999

Navua FC

the confidence of this side going into

19. Peni TUIGULAGULA

DF

08/03/1999

Nadi FC

the group stage.

20. Asaeli BATIKASA

GK

30/05/2000

Labasa FC

Coach: Bal REDDY (FIJ)

NEW CALEDONIA 1. Une KECINE

GK

06/05/2001

Dumbea FC

He’s the first Pacific Islander to pick

2. Martin MAKAM

DF

15/09/2001

AS Magenta

up an OFC A Licence, and now Felix

4. Jean-Baptiste CAROINE

DF

03/09/1999

Horizon Sport du Patho

Tagawa is taking on his first posting

5. Jules OMEI

DF

14/07/2001

AS Mont-Dore

with a national team.

6. Kiam WANESSE

DF

05/11/2001

AS Wetr

7. Titouan RICHARD

FW

04/12/2000

AS Mont-Dore

There’s a lot of expectation riding

8. Cyril DRAWILO

MF

11/04/2000

AS Mont-Dore

on this squad after their impressive

9. Jean-Jacques KATRAWA

FW

02/08/1999

FC Gaïtcha

display at U-17 level, including at the

10. Pierre BAKO

MF

09/08/2001

AS Wetr

FIFA U-17 World Cup in India and

11. Vita LONGUE

FW

25/11/2000

AS Magenta

although struck by some late injuries,

12. Armand HARPER

DF

02/06/1999

Dumbea FC

it remains a strong team.

13. Pierre WAWIA

MF

13/03/2000

Horizon Sport du Patho

14. Paul GOPE-FENEPEJ

FW

10/08/2000

Poitiers FC [FRA]

Cyril Drawilo and Titouan Richards are

15. Neil WAHIOBE

MF

06/01/2000

SC Drehu

regular starters for Mont-Dore’s senior

16. Leonard MAKALU

MF

20/04/1999

FC Gaïtcha

side and a number of their teammates

17. Georges WAKANAMUNE

DF

20/03/2001

Dumbea FC

are also plying their trade in the Super

18. Raoul WENISSO

FW

20/07/2000

AS Lossi

Ligue.

19. Josua HLEMU

MF

07/12/2000

Dumbea FC

20. Christopher YEIWENE

GK

14/12/2000

Dumbea FC

Playing alongside the seniors week in,

21. Lucas BITAUD

DF

06/01/1999

AS Mont-Dore

week out makes them physically adept and they’ll be hoping it will prove an

Coach: Felix TAGAWA (NCL)

advantage come kick-off.

TONGA: BECOMING HISTORY MAKERS When the Tonga U-19 squad learned that they had done enough at the Qualifiers in the Cook Islands to progress to the OFC U-19 Championship in Tahiti the whole team looked to the heavens.

Their talent and a strong belief in themselves had taken them through, But so had their belief in God. Australia-based Mohammed Rajani post-match headwear said it all.

“We’re coming up and it’s just amazing.”

100% God.

Rajani is not wrong about this squad of 20 making history.

“It’s unreal,” he said at the final whistle.

Before 1 June 2018, no Tonga team had ever progressed from the qualifying stage of an OFC tournament.

“Win or lose, we have to give all the thanks for being

32

given the opportunity to be here, to play. We’ve made

But wins over Cook Islands and then American Samoa had

history for our little country.

them on track ahead of a final showdown with Samoa, who

OFC INSIDER

one, over rivals Samoa.

going to Tahiti.”

When Samoa took the lead over

Namoa’s teammate Tevita Kau is

Within the first ten minutes of the

Tonga, despite feeling confident

equally proud to be part of this

match, it seemed like Tonga might

about their chance, it was a big blow.

history-making side.

of margins when Samoa took the lead

“I felt powerless,” Atunausa Namoa

Ï feel happy and proud to make

through Samuelu Malo in the eighth

said.

history for Tonga,” Kau said.

“But, at the same time I felt like it

“Of course, we worked hard for it

was a sign for us to raise ourselves

and I trust my team.”

had also notched two consecutive victories.

once again miss out by the narrowest

minute.

But under coach Soane Mailangi, this team were determined not to be

up and to keep going, not lose momentum.”

outdone.

Namoa, who grew up between Tonga They persevered and were rewarded

and New Zealand, is incredibly proud

in the 66th minute when substitute

to be representing the Kingdom.

Tuia Falepapalangi nailed in an equaliser.

While no winner eventuated for either team, Tonga were able to celebrate thanks to a superior goal difference of

“To represent our country and to make my debut for me country and

Now the team, as a collective, have one more big job to do - perform at the next stage.

“We are overwhelmed and very happy that we have qualified,” Namoa said.

to make my country proud, it’s such a good feeling,” he said.

“Everyone has our back and we’re

“We know for sure we wil do our best in Tahiti and represent our country with pride.”

OFC INSIDER

33

Eddie Kaspard is one of five Tahitian U-19 players based in France and back especially for the OFC U-19 Championship.

Success instead came for him at Trelissac, close to Bordeaux

For the 17-year-old, strong memories of the

“I’ve spent a year at Trelissac now, and I’ve come home

disappointment of his team’s U-17 campaign remain

to join the U-19 squad,” Kaspard explained.

in the south-east of France, where he was offered a place.

and he wants to erase them with nothing short of qualification for Poland 2019.

“It was quite a difficult year. The cold, being far away from my parents who I miss a lot.

“I’m very happy to be back,” Kaspard said.

“But I still got hooked. The advantage is that we were “I want to make the most of this experience and qualify

two, with Kavai’ei Morgant so we could lean on each

for the world cup so we can be proud of ourselves.”

other if it got to much for one of us.

Like most young boys, Kaspard’s first taste of football came

“That’s when you have to be strong, mentally.”

through his father.

With Trelessic, Kaspard plays in the National division against “My dad played football. I followed in his footsteps,” he

professional clubs, which he said has been a learning curve.

said. ”It was pretty difficult. The clubs are nothing like those ”I started with Manu Ura when I was five years old. Then

in Tahiti,” he said.

I left and joined Tefana between 10 and 15 years old.

“It was very intense, but very interesting. We learned a “Every year, Tefana sends the U-13 to St Etienne. We

lot of things there.”

also went to France to do some trials.”

Kaspard said the learning hasn’t been limited to just Kaspard said the initial trip to St Etienne included a football

football either.

tournament following which, they were told to return when they were 16 years old.

“We have learned to be more open, learned how to speak up. I come from a “social cases” district in Tahiti,

34

He said although the trial went well, he wasn’t picked for St

so in France I’m trying to improve the level of my

Etienne, neither for Auxerre where he also trialled.

language as well.”

OFC INSIDER

ELITE MATCH OFFICIALS PREPARE FOR ACTION A five-day OFC Match Officials Elite Seminar is set to preview the OFC U-19 Championship and ensure the referees are in top condition when the tournament kicks off.

The ultimate goal is to create a consistent interpretation and application of the Laws of the Game by all OFC Match Officials, in line with the rest of the world.

Topics being covered include handballs, challenges,

understanding of the game.

tactical fouls and offside.

OFC Referee Development Officer Kevin Stoltenkamp and TFA Referee Development Officer Tevita Vea are

FTF Technical Director Patrice Flaccadori will also be

responsible for the technical aspects of the course.

on hand to conduct a presentation on team formation and tactics in order to give participants a better

Fitness will be covered by New Zealand’s Greg Gallop.

OFC U-19 CHAMPIONSHIP 2018 MATCH OFFICIALS Referees Joel HOPKEN [VAN] George TIME [SOL] Mederic LACOUR [NCL] Robinson BANGA [VAN] Salesh CHAND [FIJ] David YAREBOINEN [PNG] Nick WALDRON [NZL] Kader ZITOUNI [TAH] Campbell-Kirk WAUGH [NZL] Norbert HAUATA [TAH]

Assistant Referees John PAREANGA [COK] Sione TEU [TGA] Bernard MUTUKERA [SOL] Hilmon SESE [VAN] Jeremy GARAE [VAN] Stephen SENIGA [SOL] Folio MOEAKI [TGA]

OFC INSIDER

35

FRENCH POLYNESIA

An overseas collective of France, French Polynesia is 118 geographically dispersed islands and atolls in the Pacific Ocean, covering a total land area of 4,167 square kilometres.

French Polynesia’s white sand beaches, clear azure waters and mountainous islands evoke a dream holiday destination for many.

And there is plenty to do. Va’a, surfing, diving and trekking are all great outdoor pursuits. And there’s also plenty of unique souvenirs worth exploring, including the famous Tahiti black pearls, or the renowned Vanilla pods, all of which can be found at the Papeete Market (pictured).

French Polynesia is worth a visit, the likes of Marlon Brando, Paul Gaugin and Jacques Brel can vouch for it.

They’re just three of the many people who have visited its shores, and found it hard to leave again.

QUALIFIER SET FOR KICK-OFF

E

very four years the OFC Women’s Nations Cup rolls around on the competition calendar offering the opportunity for nations across Oceania to showcase the development which has gone into the women’s game during that period.

The Pacific Mini-Games held in Vanuatu in December last

“Obviously New Zealand has set a very high standard

year were a small insight into the women’s game with

over the past decade, but we’ve seen a lot of effort

Vanuatu’s training in China reaping rewards in the form of a

going in across our Pacific nations and expect there will

gold medal.

be some surprises in store come kick-off.”

For both finalists from that event, Vanuatu and Fiji, the OFC

The Qualifier will be held at the recently refurbished

Women’s Nations Cup Qualifier awaits.

Churchill Park in Lautoka, Fiji from the 24-30 August.

They will be joined by Solomon Islands and American Samoa

The winning team will progress to the OFC Women’s

as each of the four nations bids to qualify for the final

Nations Cup which is being held in New Caledonia from 18

tournament in New Caledonia.

November to 1 December.

This is the first time all 11 OFC Member Associations will

The Group Stage will be held in Noumea, in the south, and

take part in this competition which is pleasing progression Kone, in the north, and will feature the host country along for OFC Competitions Director Chris Kemp.

with New Zealand, Tahiti, Tonga, Samoa, Cook Islands, and Papua New Guinea.

“It’s a great step forward for the women’s game in our region,” Kemp said.

The OFC Women’s Nations Cup champion will represent OFC at the FIFA Women’s World Cup France 2019 and the

“We are very excited to see what all 11 of these teams can do on the regional stage.

38

OFC INSIDER

Women’s Olympic Football Tournament 2020.

TORA’S RISE WITH FIJI

M

ereoni Tora’s mantra is that ‘nothing is impossible if you believe in yourself’. And it is that belief which has helped her not only become a key member of Marika Rodu’s national women’s team, but also hit milestones in her education and career too.

The centre back recently graduated from the School of the

“Being in camp I can see the benefits sport can have as it

Service Pro with a Certificate III in Tourism and Hospitality.

has helped me become physically fit, but also helped my mental resolve,” she said.

And she achieved that while also balancing her commitments to the national women’s team which has spend the past two

Tora took up football when she was in Year 9, following in the

months in camp at the Fiji FA Academy in Vatuwaqa.

footsteps of her mother.

“I am proud that today, I am able to fulfil my dream of taking “Actually I started playing football at my school, but I up the challenge of playing football and completing my

believe football is in our blood because my mum was also a

studies,” the 19-year-old said.

football player.

“I really worked hard for a spot in the national team, but also The former U-19 international is now looking ahead to the next wanted to do well in my studies and my hard work has paid

challenge, which she hopes will end with Fiji qualifying for the

off in both areas.

OFC Women’s Nations Cup.

“It hasn’t been easy to balance the two, but I took up the

Fiji will host Vanuatu, American Samoa and Solomon Islands

challenge with the support of my family and teammates.”

at the end of August for the OFC Women’s Nations Cup Qualifier.

The former Kamil College student is a strong believer in the benefits sport can have both physically, and mentally.

“After completing my certificate I am now putting my focus solely on training and helping my team qualify,” she said.

OFC INSIDER

39

IN LOVING MEMORY OF EMMIE SOPE The untimely passing of Emmie Sope, our colleague, our friend, but more importantly - our sister, has left a gaping hole in the heart of the Oceania Football Confederation.

Emmie’s compassion is evident in the course her life has taken.

Growing up in Vanuatu and Tonga, Emmie has always had a mix of Pacific blood and culture, and a firm understanding of the differences but more importantly, the similarities, of being a Pacific Islander.

When she moved to Palmerston North to continue her studies, few would be surprised that this compassionate woman saw a future for herself helping others as a nurse.

40

OFC INSIDER

Upon receiving her qualification Emmie returned to Vanuatu to work in the local hospital in Port Vila.

It was here her involvement in football grew as she progressed from player to administrator - always with an eye for trying to offer women and girls the same opportunities to play as their male counterparts.

She held the position of women’s football chairperson for the Port Vila Football Association in Vanuatu from 2002 to 2006.

And was actively involved in the development of women’s football since 1999, when she became the treasurer of the women’s football committee in Port Vila.

But Emmie had a bigger vision for football across the Pacific.

Having caught the eye of FIFA Development Officer Glenn Turner, Emmie was soon called on to lend her expertise as a part-time women’s football consultant in 2005 and 2006.

Emmie moved to New Zealand permanently in 2006 to further her nursing career, the lure of working in football soon grew too great.

In 2010 Emmie joined OFC full-time as the Women’s Development Officer a role where

she would focus on the progress of the female game in the Pacific region.

“There is a need to develop women’s football in the Pacific to reach a high standard in OFC competitions and I am glad to be given the opportunity by OFC to be involved in this process.

“I’m looking forward to working with the women’s football development officers within the Member Associations to improve women’s football in the Pacific,”she said at the time of her appointment.

One year later, Emmie joined the OFC Social Responsibility department as the Just Play Technical Coordinator and it seemed she had finally found her home.

Just Play provided Emmie with the opportunity to combine her love of football with her passion for helping people to live their best lives.

Responsible for not only working with the OFC Technical Department to develop the football-related content of the programme, Emmie was also key to integrating the social messages which formed the basis of the programme, with the football activities.

As Just Play grew, so too did Emmie’s Pacific family.

Across Oceania this family will remember Emmie Sope fondly.

Humble, strong, generous and wise we were all privileged to work alongside Emmie.

Her passion for football development, for gender equality, for the rights of women and children and the development of the communities she visited was unrivalled.

She was an advocate for anyone and everyone and stood strong as an example for those who worked alongside her, providing constant encouragement and pushing us all to believe in our abilities and follow our hearts.

As our friend, Emmie always showed compassion and understanding, never judgment.

She was generous, kind-hearted and humble. She embraced one and all and always had time for anyone who needed it whether it was just to listen, or it was someone seeking her sound advice, Emmie was always available.

Emmie we love you.

Your warm smile, your kind eyes and heart and the passion we shared for football and our Pacific people.

Go strong dear friend, may you Rest in Eternal Peace.

OFC INSIDER

41

OFC CHAMPIONS LEAGUE 2018 The OFC Champions League concluded in May but not without providing plenty of football highlights for fans across the globe.

Not only did we have a new finalist this year, but a new champion too.

Team Wellington had an impressive run to the title which started in Honiara, Solomon Islands and took them all the way to Lautoka, Fiji.

Next stop, the FIFA Club World Cup in the United Arab Emirates, but first let’s take a quick look back at the journey they took to get there.

42

OFC INSIDER

UPCOMING EVENTS OFC U-19 Championship 5-18 August // Tahiti FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup 5-24 August // France FIFA Governance Workshop 7-9 August // New Zealand OFC Women’s Nations Cup Qualifier 24-30 August // Fiji OFC U-16 Championship 9-22 September // Solomon Islands OFC Executive Committee September // TBC OFC Extraordinary Congress September // TBC FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup 13 November - 1 December // Uruguay OFC Women’s Nations Cup 18 November - 1 December // New Caledonia FIFA Club World Cup 12-22 December // United Arab Emirates

OFC INSIDER

43