OFC Insider Issue 9 Oct/Nov 2015

ISSUE NINE OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2015

Micah Lea’alafa: Out to make his mark OFC Nations Cup heading to PNG 2016 OFC Champions League draw held

OFC Insider

The impressive form we witnessed from New Zealand during the 2015 OFC U-20 Women’s Championship means I am delighted at the prospect of welcoming the team to Papua New Guinea for the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in a year’s time.

The side really stamped their mark on the qualifier, held at the Loto-Tonga Soka Centre in Tonga, setting several records along the way. It will be great to see them representing the region alongside Papua New Guinea as two Oceania nations compete in a FIFA women’s tournament for the first time.

The planning for the 2016 tournament is moving into high gear. The Local Organising Committee is coming together and the Government has made an outstanding commitment to helping us deliver this historic event for Papua New Guinea and the Oceania region.

With a year to go, having UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador David Beckham make a high-profile visit to Papua New Guinea as part of a global campaign has helped shine the spotlight on the country and football as a social development tool.

Members of the Papua New Guinea U-20 women’s team travelled to Mt Hagen in the Western Highlands to greet Beckham which I am sure was a memorable event for each and every one of them, as well as the Mt Hagen community.

It was with a heavy heart that in October we learned of the passing of New Caledonia’s Paul Qaeze. His commitment and support for the development of football in New Caledonia was well documented and our thoughts remain with his family, friends and the nation’s football community.

Finally, at the end of November we will hold our final Executive Committee meeting of the year in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea.

This is a chance for the committee to review the activities of 2015, the first year of the new term, and to look ahead to 2016 and beyond.

Yours in football

David Chung OFC President FIFA Vice-President PNGFA President

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IN THIS ISSUE

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NEW ZEALAND SET THE PACE

GOLDEN DELIGHT FOR PEREIRA

BECKHAM MAKES PNG STOPOVER

New Zealand’s U-20 women’s team set the pace at the 2015 OFC U-20 Women’s Championship as they secured fourstraight victories and a berth at the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup Papua New Guinea 2016.

The Golden Ball winner at the 2015 OFC U-20 Women’s Championship in Tonga, Jasmine Pereira is fast becoming a role model for young girls across the Pacific.

Global superstar David Beckham shone the spotlight on Papua New Guinea during a recent stopover in the Highlands Province as part of his work with UNICEF.

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LEA’ALAFA ADDS SOLOMON FLAIR

2016 OFC CHAMPIONS LEAGUE DRAW

SPOTLIGHT ON THE COOK ISLANDS

The draw for the 2016 OFC Champions League has revealed what is on the cards for the 12 sides set to participate in the region’s premier international club competition come April 2016.

We highlight some of the key facts about the Cook Islands, a nation gearing up to welcome young female footballers from around Oceania for the OFC U-17 Women’s Championship in January.

Renowned for his talents on the futsal court, Solomon Islands dual international Micah Lea’alafa is adding a certain flair to New Zealand’s Premiership with new club Auckland City FC.

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 OFC Insider is authorised, provided the source is indicated.

Produced by: OFC Media and Communications Photography: Phototek / FIFA via Getty Images / OFC Media / Willie Tuiravakai / UNICEF Cover photo: Phototek

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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New Zealand a dominant force in Tonga New Zealand will represent Oceania at the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Pap ua New Guinea next year after easing through the OFC U-20 Women’s Championship in Tonga to claim their sixth regional title.

Papua New Guinea have long been the Kiwis main challengers in Oceania and they certainly profited from their absence in Tonga, dominating their four opponents in incredible fashion – winning all four matches and racking up 69 goals in the process, without conceding once.

Held over ten days at the Loto-Tonga Soka Centre, the event also featured New Caledonia, Samoa, Vanuatu and the host nation.

New Zealand saw off home side Tonga 15-0 on the opening day of competition setting the standard early for what was to be a recurring theme. They followed that up with a remarkable 26-0 victory over New Caledonia, then 18-0 against Vanuatu, before rounding out their tournament with a 10-0 winning margin against second-placed Samoa.

New Zealand forward Emma Rolston profited most from the goal-fest, notching several milestones along the way. Her 11-goal haul against New Caledonia was the highest ever individual tally by a female player in an OFC match. She finished with an overall tally of 25 goals, winning her second consecutive Golden Boot and surpassing Football Fern Rosie White for the most goals ever by an Oceania U-20 women’s player.

A 3-3 draw on the final day of action between Samoa and Vanuatu saw the Polynesian side pip their opponent in the silver medal race. Despite their devastating 26-0 loss to the Kiwis, New Caledonia continued to improve over the course of the tournament and their final 3-2 win over Tonga meant the hosts were forced to the bottom of the standings.

New Zealand are now set to be part of a small piece of history, with the tournament in Papua New Guinea to be the first FIFA women’s event to feature two Oceania nations.

FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup Papua New Guinea 2016 OFC

Papua New Guinea (host), New Zealand

UEFA

Spain, Sweden, Germany, France

AFC

Japan, Korea DPR, Korea Republic

CAF

Ghana, Nigeria

CONMEBOL

TBD

CONCACAF

TBD

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OFC Insider

Pereira a burgeoning role model Being outstanding at her chosen sport is just one reason why OFC U-20 Women’s Championship Golden Ball winner Jasmine Pereira is considered a role model among her peers.

But the pride she has for her Samoan heritage is why burgeoning young footballers throughout the region look up to the New Zealand striker.

Captaining New Zealand’s record-setting U-20 squad at the 2015 OFC U-20 Women’s Championship in early October, Pereria says initially she was a little wary about what to expect in Tonga, the host nation.

“When I first heard it would be held in Tonga I was a bit unsure. I’m Samoan, so I’ve been to Samoa quite a lot and wondered if it would be similar,” she says.

“I think it was all done really well and Tonga did a great job in hosting it. It’s been a good tournament for the girls, they’ve seen a lot of things they’ve never seen before and I’ve been able to bring them somewhere that’s quite close to me so that’s been cool.”

As a member of the Football Ferns Pereira is a role model to many young New Zealanders and before heading to Tonga was visiting schools around Auckland as part of New Zealand Football’s annual Girls and Women’s Week events.

When the opportunity to visit a local high school in Tonga presented itself, Pereira was a strong advocate for it going ahead, and the visit to Tailulu College proved one of the trip highlights.

“Seeing the young girls and seeing the girls in Tonga, the young islanders, just going hard and playing soccer, I just love it.

“I love being around kids and seeing them have fun. It’s such a good experience for me to be able to have that time to go round and see them too.”

Pereira is no wall flower, which is perhaps what endears her to her teammates, and opponents alike.

Tonga Football Association hosted each of the team’s participating in the competition at ‘Olohei Resort, offering a slice of local cuisine and culture.

A local band playing music from around the Pacific got most of the teams on their feet at one point or another and along with Tessa Nicol the responsibility for representing the Kiwis fell on the captain’s shoulders.

“I was sort of forced,” she jokes.

“I went to get some more food and the girls told me I wasn’t allowed to sit down until I had a dance. I was standing there with a plate of food and just had to put it down and do it.

“The girls knew I danced and I always dance around the hotel, but doing it in front of everyone else is a bit different. It brought a bit more

attention to me than I wanted but it was good.”

Pereira impressed with her siva skills, and more than that she helped strengthen the link between New Zealand and the Pacific Islands teams present that night.

“The girls were saying to me ‘we need to do something, we don’t want to be the serious team!’

“It’s quite cool to get involved and make that connection with the other teams,” she says.

“I thought it was really cool that we all came together and had a big feast together.”

Pereira more than impressed with her off-field exploits during the

OFC Insider OFC U-20 Women’s Championship in Tonga, but her on-field efforts were also outstanding.

The Golden Ball is a coveted prize at any competition and Pereira’s consistent form throughout the tournament – pressing, assisting, scoring goals and strong ball recovery – made her an obvious candidate for the award.

Although, it’s not something she was expecting.

“I just heard my name and walked over not really knowing what for,” she says.

“I thought it was pretty cool and the girls were like ‘yeah! It’s player of the tournament’, which is really something.

“I was a bit shocked but it’s awesome. And while I’m stoked it’s all for the team, it’s a little token for the girls as well as for me.”

Pereira is no stranger to major awards.

An outstanding international debut saw her awarded joint-Golden Boot at the 2012 OFC U-17 Championship with a haul of six goals and she’s been making great strides since, even if she did come a little late to the game.

“I was a bit of a late bloomer to football to be honest,” Pereira recalls.

“I never watched much when I was younger, but I always knew of the Football Ferns and thought that’s something I want to do.”

As the story goes, Pereira’s mum suggested that come high school it was time to pick just one sport – and she had planned on netball.

But long lines soon had the then 13-year-old switching to football and it’s a decision she hasn’t once regretted.

Still only 19-years-old, Periera has attended three FIFA world cup tournaments, with the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Papua New Guinea set to be her fourth.

She made her debut with the Football Ferns at the OFC Women’s Nations Cup in November 2014 and has been an almost constant member of the squad since, joining them at the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup earlier this year.

While her experience is wide-ranging, Pereira says she rates her personal performance in Tonga as one of her best of the past few years.

“I think coming into this particular tournament it’s the fittest physically that I’ve been for a while,” she explains.

“The last few qualifiers I’ve been carrying some injuries and this time I don’t have any.

I’m feeling a lot fresher and I felt a lot better than I have before.”

Football Ferns coach Tony Readings says welcoming Pereira into the senior fold is recognition of her talent and the effort she puts into constantly evolving her game.

“Jasmine has a high level of enthusiasm and a strong desire to improve herself as a player,” Readings says.

“She has lots of potential due to her technical and physical attributes and a strong attacking mind-set.”

For her part, Pereira is relishing the environment and the opportunities it continues to provide.

“It’s really intense but I love it.

“It’s such a high standard of football from all the girls, everyone is always pushing each other and it’s just a great environment to be in,” she says.

“It pushes you to be a better player I think, going on tour with them. It’s a bit of a killer running my arse off but I find it an amazing experience and I love going away with them.”

While she’s making the most personally, Pereira is also bringing something of her own to the environment according to Readings.

“As a young player within the Football Ferns she adds a youthful energy and enthusiasm to the environment,” he says.

“She is a very likeable character and her energy is infectious to others.”

In terms of what she’s bringing to the field of play, Readings is equally impressed.

“Jasmine has a direct and purposeful playing style. Her strong attacking mind-set is displayed through running at defenders, delivering crosses and hunger to score.

“She has a lot of potential that is yet to be realised. If Jasmine continues to work hard and develop her game then she has a bright future ahead of her,” he says.

Readings doesn’t have to worry about her work ethic.

Pereira is fortunate to be a full-time athlete and is focused on training and getting fitter.

“It’s definitely helped and it’s given me time to focus on myself and being the best athlete that I can,” she says of going full-time.

And with the goal of a career in the game, she’s now looking to find opportunities offshore that will help her live her dream.

“I’ve never wanted to get a normal job,” she says.

“I don’t know where or when really, but I want to find somewhere that will be bigger and better, somewhere that will make me a better player.

“It’s more for development so that when I come back I give more to the Ferns because if I can improve, that will benefit the team.”

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OFC and UNICEF renew partnership for children The Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) and UNICEF are excited to announce they will continue to work together to improve the lives of children in Oceania through the Just Play Programme, following the renewal of their partnership for a further 12 months.

Since the start of the partnership in 2013, Just Play – the Oceania Football Confederation’s sport for development programme – has worked alongside UNICEF on several projects, to reach thousands of children through the powerful medium of sport.

Just Play Head of Social Responsibility and International Relations Franck Castillo, says continuing to work alongside UNICEF will ensure the Just Play Programme reaches new levels in 2016.

“We are very pleased to have signed on to continue working alongside UNICEF, as the partnership has delivered many positive results for children,” Castillo says.

“Working alongside this globally renowned organisation provides OFC and the Just Play programme with a powerful platform, helping us to reach more children across the region. Additionally UNICEF’s reputation and history gives our work an added level of credibility and recognition internationally.”

Isabelle Austin, Deputy Representative for UNICEF Pacific, reinforces this positive impact saying: “The partnership with OFC and the Just Play programme is recognized by UNICEF as a critical entry point through which to engage children in the Pacific.”

“By merging the power and potential of sport with broader development objectives, around health, social inclusion, gender and emergencies, Just Play has become an integral part of UNICEF’s efforts to focus on the holistic development of children and communities.”

In 2014 OFC and UNICEF joined forces to promote the “Kick Dengue Out of Fiji” campaign, which ran alongside OFC’s premier international club competition, the OFC Champions League. Later that year Just Play became one of five social responsibility campaigns selected to be part of the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, gaining a considerable boost in profile and funding as a result.

In the wake of Cyclone Pam, UNICEF and OFC again used the OFC Champions League as a platform to campaign from, joining forces to support recovery efforts in Vanuatu.

Castillo says working together with UNICEF offers mutual benefits, with Just Play taking advantage of UNICEF’s knowledge in the field of sport for development while Just Play, in turn, offers a gateway into football in Oceania.

“We are not experts in the area of health and wellness, gender, children’s rights, child protection or emergency response, therefore the knowledge and experience UNICEF brings to the table has been vital in helping to improve our work for children,” he says.

“It has also helped us to better monitor and evaluate our work and understand the impact our programme is having on children in the region.”

“We see football as an ideal platform to support the dissemination of positive life messages for children throughout the Oceania region.”

Just Play and UNICEF will launch their latest campaign, targeted at ending violence towards children and women, at the 2016 OFC U-17 Women’s Championship in the Cook Islands in January next year.

OFC Insider

( ©UNICEF/UKLA2015-00080/Nickerson)

Beckham shines spotlight on Mount Hagen The world’s spotlight was focused firmly on an isolated village in Papua New Guinea’s Western Highlands Province in November as David Beckham touched down in Mount Hagen.

Beckham, the former England midfielder, pledged to complete an ambitious global project that would see him play seven matches on seven continents, as part of his work as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and in support of his 7: The David Beckham UNICEF Fund.

OFC and PNGFA President David Chung said Beckham’s visit helps raise the profile of football in Papua New Guinea and Oceania as a whole, while also highlighting some of the social issues that exist in the nation.

“The work being done by UNICEF in Papua New Guinea, and throughout the Pacific Islands, is commendable and it is excellent to see someone like David Beckham using his voice and influence to help make a difference,” Chung said.

While Beckham may be a global sensation, recognisable almost anywhere he goes, Papua New Guinea Sports Minister Justin Tkatchenko says the he managed to find a hint of anonymity in Mt Hagen.

“A lot of them don’t know who this guy is and how famous he is,” Tkatchenko said of the villagers who welcomed the former Manchester United, Real Madrid and LA Galaxy superstar.

“Those that have social media and have played soccer and that have a love for the sport are just over the moon.”

Among those lucky enough to get a meetand-greet with one of the most recognisable

footballers in the world were the Papua New Guinea U-20 women’s team.

“Papua New Guinea is the first port of call and we’re very proud that David Beckham has come here, especially as in November 2016 we’ll be hosting the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup – it’s great timing for him to be here and promoting football and himself in Papua New Guinea,” Tkatchenko says.

“I asked if he would have time to meet the girls who will be representing Papua New Guinea in that competition and he was very accommodating.

“All the girls came up from Lae and met him; got their photographs, got their shirts signed and were in absolute awe.

“Most of the time they were absolutely speechless. It was a fabulous time to have him here and have our PNG U-20 women’s team meet him personally.”

Before heading to Mount Hagen General Hospital to see first-hand some of the work being done by UNICEF, Beckham took in a spot of football with the locals.

Two teams from different villages played a 40 minute match with the former England captain in what Tkatchenko labelled a “real grassroots game”, with the inclusion of some football making before kick-off.

“It’s unbelievable to have someone like him visiting PNG. It will put the spotlight on football, and give the game a whole new meaning here, especially in the Highlands,” the sports minister said.

As part of the tour Beckham is filming a BBC documentary that will focus on some of the challenges in the countries he visited, as well as the work UNICEF is doing in each of them.

One child in every 13 in Papua New Guinea dies before they reach their fifth birthday and national statistics show that close to half of children in the country suffer from stunting.

The David Beckham UNICEF Fund is

helping UNICEF to deliver life-changing programmes for children across every region of the world, including those affected by malnutrition in Papua New Guinea.

“At the start of this year, I launched my own Fund with UNICEF because I wanted to help build a safer world for children. I feel very proud to be in Papua New Guinea to see for the first time how the money raised

is helping to keep children healthy and safe, by providing live-saving therapeutic food for children suffering from malnutrition,” Beckham said.

“I believe that all children should be given the opportunity to reach their full potential and it’s incredible to see the lengths UNICEF will go to in order to protect the most vulnerable and hardest to reach children.”

The visit will be a memorable one for many, including Beckham himself.

“His visit is something really special,” OFC and PNGFA President David Chung said.

“It places an emphasis on what football is all about — it’s more than just a game, it’s a tool for social change.”

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THE

BIG INTERVIEW Micah Lea’alafah Lea’alafa swaps court for grass A simple Facebook message gauging his interest in joining one of the region’s top football clubs changed everything for Solomon Islander Micah Lea’alafa.

Better known for his exploits on the futsal court, the young striker is now turning heads in the 11-a-side game too.

Impressive for Vanuatu club Amicale FC during the 2015 OFC Champions League, Lea’alafa turned one head that really counted – that of coach Ramon Tribulietx.

Lea’alafa was quietly mulling over a couple of potential options for his future when his inbox pinged with a message from Auckland City FC, the six-time OFC Champions League winners.

When he read the message asking if he’d be interested in joining the side for the upcoming season, he knew something special was on the cards.

“It’s a big deal for me,” he says of joining the New Zealand-based side.

“It’s a big opportunity. When I was with Amicale we played against them in Fiji and I just wanted to do my best because it’s a side that is number three in the world.

“Playing with them is a privilege for me and the coach is very helpful. He’s a good coach and I’m starting to adapt.”

And anyone who has seen the way he controls and manipulates the ball will know exactly why he caught the attention of Tribulietx.

“Micah is a very technical player who can do things that actually, not many can,” the Spaniard explains.

“He is very good in 1v1 situations, has a good understanding of the game, links really well up front, has great movement on and off the ball and is capable of creating goal-scoring opportunities by himself.”

Tribulietx says that while impressive with Amicale this year, Lea’alafa has been on his radar for some time now.

OFC Insider “We have known of his ability for a couple of years and we decided this was the time to look to bring him in.”

It’s a big move for the 24-year-old who has never strayed far from home soil for too long.

“Since I was a kid I’ve wanted a career in football that would take me to New Zealand or Australia like some of the players before me from the Solomon Islands,” Lea’alafa says.

Now slowly, but surely, he’s finding a place for himself and intends to surpass those who have come before him.

“We have a lot of structures in and out of possession that take a while to understand, but he is naturally gifted to play the way we understand the game,” Tribulietx says of how he envisions his new charge fitting in at Auckland City.

By all accounts, it’s started well.

Lea’alafa made his competitive debut for Auckland City in the 2015 Charity Cup match against Team Wellington, scoring the second goal in a 3-0 victory.

He then set the Premiership alight with an outstanding performance against Waitakere United in the opening match of the season.

“He needs some time to readjust and his teammates need to understand what he’s going to do and he needs to understand how to play his special stuff within our structures.

“That’s beginning to happen and when you give the guy a bit of space or he’s got a one-on-one, he can do anything.”

From Lea’alafa’s point-of-view, the structures and philosophy that Auckland City FC have implemented are having a positive effect on his approach to the game.

“It’s good for me here because I had no patience and was always wanting to attack, attack.

“Now I’m realising it’s good to be patient and wait to attack. I’m learning more about the game.”

Tribulietx clearly has confidence in what this rising star is capable of and that will continue to be a boost for Lea’alafa as he adjusts to new surroundings — and a much colder climate.

“I’m adjusting to New Zealand slowly,” he says, “it’s very cold for me.”

Fortunately there is a thriving Solomon Island community to help make the process a little more comfortable.

“I’m staying with David and Ellie (Firisua) and it’s good to have Solomon Islanders to live with and help me adjust.

“There’s a lot more trainings than I’m used to and it’s strict — no more Solomon time! But otherwise I’m adjusting well to Auckland City time.”

A ball in constant motion is very much part of the childhood that Lea’alafa remembers fondly His new coach describes Lea’alafa as a player that is “unpredictable for the opposition”.

“Micah always shows for the ball, looking to be involved and he is always looking to show good angles of support. Overall he’s a very difficult player for a coach to find and someone who matches well with the way we want to play the game,” Tribulietx explains.

In part that unpredictability probably comes down to the skills learnt growing up playing futsal, something OFC Futsal and Beach Soccer Development Officer Paul Toohey says is more than likely.

“To people involved in futsal, Micah’s skills have been evident for many years,” Toohey says.

“He burst onto the world scene in 2008 at the FIFA Futsal World Cup in Brazil and after some outstanding performances in the next three OFC Futsal Championships he went to the FIFA World Cup in Thailand.

That’s perhaps where he went to another level.

“His goal against Colombia was breath taking. It says everything about Micah’s wonderful skills — you just have to see it.

He’s also been terrific for Solomon Warriors and Amicale in the past few seasons.”

While there is a lot of hype around him and his futsal skills, Lea’alafa says himself he’s not a rarity.

“In Solomon Islands we have some scary skilful players, they’re so good.

“Futsal in the Solomon Islands is massive.

I think when I started more people were playing so it was an honour to play for my country. I really enjoy playing futsal, I think it developed me for the big pitch.”

Toohey agrees that futsal is a popular game in the Solomon Islands, and one that has contributed a lot to the development and passion for football the nation enjoys.

“The challenges that exist in Solomon Islands are, in many ways, the very things that create players like Micah.

“It’s a place where the ball never stops rolling. Futsal, football — it doesn’t matter.

Kids play from dawn to dusk, on concrete, on grass, on sand and often without any equipment. It’s an organic environment — kids, the ball and passion for the game. Creativity comes from that and it’s something that is increasingly becoming lost in other parts of the world.”

A ball in constant motion is very much part of the childhood that Lea’alafa remembers fondly.

“It’s good in the Solomon Islands. For fun we sing and play soccer in the street. If there’s no training, we go find some boys and just play.”

Now there is more structure to the games he plays, but Lea’alafa is excited that he has the opportunity to carve out a name for himself using the skills he refined on the streets of Honiara.

“I think Auckland City will go well this year,” he says of the domestic season and the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup in Japan.

“I’m excited about the Club World Cup, going back to a world cup tournament. It will be different to the futsal, there will be a big audience and the prospect of playing Barcelona is pretty cool.”

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OFC Insider

OFC Nations Cup set

for Papua New Guinea The most highly anticipated tournament on the OFC calendar — the OFC Nations Cup — is heading to Papua New Guinea in 2016.

The tenth edition of the event, which will see eight of OFC’s 11 Member Associations compete for regional accolades as well as a place at the 2017 FIFA Confederations Cup, also acts as Stage 2 of Oceania’s 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia™ Qualifiers.

Sir John Guise Stadium and the National Football Stadium in Port Moresby have been earmarked to host the tournament which will run from 28 May-11 June 2016.

Worth $30 million each, the two stadiums boast world-class facilities, are equipped with broadcast standard floodlights and, at capacity, can house 15,000 of the region’s football fans.

“In addition to what we can expect on the field, the tournament provides an excellent opportunity to coordinate a large-scale event ahead of the upcoming FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup which we are hosting in November 2016,” says OFC and PNGFA President David Chung.

The OFC Nations Cup is a storied competition that until 2012 had never been won by a nation outside of New Zealand and former OFC member Australia.

New Zealand won the inaugural title in 1973 before going on to secure three further titles. Australia also have four Oceania titles lining their history books.

In 2012 two Francophone sides contested the final for the first time after New Caledonia defeated the defending champions New Zealand 2-0 in the semi-finals. Tahiti triumphed 1-0 in the final at Lawson Tama Stadium in Honiara to become the first Pacific Island to claim the title.

The victory also saw the French Polynesians qualify for their first senior FIFA tournament – the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup. The draw for the 2016 OFC Nations Cup was held as part of the 2018 FIFA World Cup Preliminary Draw at the Konstantinovsky Palace in Saint Petersburg in July 2015.

2016 OFC Nations Cup – 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia™ Qualifiers – OFC Stage 2 Group A

Group B

Tahiti

New Zealand

New Caledonia

Solomon Islands

Samoa

Fiji

Papua New Guinea

Vanuatu

OFC Insider

Qualifiers shake up regional rankings American Samoa, Cook Islands and Samoa leapfrogged more than 30 nations each as they rocketed up the Coca-Cola/FIFA World Rankings following some impressive form at the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia™ Qualifiers for Oceania.

Inactivity had seen the majority of Oceania nations sitting outside the top 150 but the flurry of activity in Tonga in September means the regional rankings are looking much different.

Where New Zealand, New Caledonia, Tahiti and Solomon Islands had occupied the top four spots comfortably for some time, several of them have since had to make way for some new names.

New Zealand maintained their position at the top of the most recent release of the rankings on 5 November. But with an 11 position drop to 159th, one of their lowest rankings to date, they now sit just six spots ahead of Oceania’s second ranked side – Samoa.

The new position, a place in the rankings that they’ve held since October, came about after Samoa secured passage to their second consecutive OFC Nations Cup. For their part, American Samoa fell just one goal short of an historical qualification to the 2016 OFC Nations Cup. However despite that disappointment, two victories at the tournament in Tonga were enough to see them jump 35 places from 199th to 164th in October.

It is the highest ranking they have ever held, surpassing the feats of 2011 which saw them climb to 186th.

Ramin Ott, American Samoa captain and the nation’s leading goalscorer, is proud to see his side continuing to make history.

“Our position at 164 in the world rankings is the highest so far, and it goes to show that American Samoa is heading in the right direction,” Ott states.

A sentiment Football Federation American Samoa president Faiivae Iuli Alex Godinet shares, saying it all comes down to years of hard work and dedication.

“This is an amazing achievement for our men’s national team,” Godinet says.

“The executive committee and I got to see first-hand the efforts at training and the sacrifices made by our players and team management in preparing this team.

“We are all in agreement that it was well worth it.”

Ott adds that while it’s a great achievement, it is one they must work hard to make the norm rather than something to aim for every four years.

“It should shine a light on the fact that we need to play more international friendlies.”

It is a similar situation for Cook Islands who had to wait 15 years to surpass their previous high of 170, which was achieved in 2000.

Context comes into it as population, geography and resources makes things difficult for the Cook Islands to develop and get regular games meaning the side is at its most active come World Cup qualifying every four years.

However having shown their class and come within inches of progressing to Stage 2, the Cook Islands next big obstacle is finding the ability to maintain that upward trajectory.

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2016 OFC Champions League draw revealed The OFC Champions League is the Oceania Football Confederation’s premier international club competition which brings together 12 of the top teams from around the Pacific to compete for the regional crown.

The 14th edition of the prestigious event is being held in Auckland and Wellington, New Zealand in April 2016 and the draw, held on Monday 16 November, threw some familiar challenges up for seven-time defending champions Auckland City FC. For the third consecutive edition of the tournament, Auckland City have drawn Vanuatu rivals Amicale FC in the group stage.

Alongside them in Group A are the yet-to-be-determined S-League champions from Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea newcomers Lae City Dwellers.

Group B is led by 2015 runners-up Team Wellington who, like Auckland City, face a familiar foe in Hekari United from Papua New Guinea as well as Suva FA of Fiji and New Caledonia club AS Lossi.

The final group sees a return to regional level for Fiji club champions Nadi FC and AS Magenta of New Caledonia, who will be joined by Tahiti’s AS Tefana and the 2016 OFC Champions League Preliminary winner.

The Preliminary will be held from 26-30 January in the Cook Islands with the club champions from hosts Cook Islands, American Samoa, Tonga and Samoa competing for the last remaining berth in the final competition.

2016 OFC Champions League Preliminary Tournament 1. Utulei Youth FC

(ASA)

2. Kiwi FC

(SAM)

3. Veitongo FC

(TGA)

4. Tupapa Maraerenga

(COK)

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2016 OFC Champions League Groups Group A Auckland City FC Amicale FC Solomon Islands champion Lae City Dwellers

(NZL) (VAN) (SOL)) (PNG)

Group B Team Wellington Hekari United Suva FA AS Lossi

(NZL) (PNG) (FIJ) (NCL)

Group C

Draw Reaction

Nadi FC AS Magenta AS Tefana OFC Champions League Preliminary winner

(FIJ) (NCL) (TAH) (TBC)

Ivan Vicelich

Anthony Pisano

Alex Feneridis

“The tournament is a hard format and playing against the champions of any nation is going to be difficult no matter what. We’ve had experience in Champions League before and no matter what we’ve got to draw on that experience to come out on top again and it’s going to be difficult.

“I’ve noticed the quality gets better and better every year. I’ve been playing around the region a lot and I think the standard is getting better, they prepare better, the quality of the players coming through is constantly improving and that’s what makes the tournament difficult for all the teams playing. It’s going to be a great opportunity for the public to come out in Wellington and Auckland and see some great players from around the region playing.”

We certainly think we can contend for the title – we wouldn’t be in the competition if we didn’t think we were in with a chance.

We’re confident with the players that we’ve got and the preparation that we have coming up.

“Again, it’s going to be a challenge trying to beat Auckland – obviously they’re champions of Oceania and did well at the FIFA Club World Cup last year – but we’re confident that we’re in with a good chance.”

“It’s a very exciting time for New Zealand to have the Champions League based here and you’re never going to get an easy draw no matter who you get in your group. We’re excited just to be competing again.

“The wind is not so subtle in Wellington to be honest. It’s tough for us as well. It’s not easy playing in Wellington aside from the fact we’ll be a bit more used to it. It can be a beautiful day in Wellington but not that often and if it’s raining we’re going to have to get the studs out and there’s a lot more things that come into it.”

Captain / Auckland City FC

Technical Director / Amicale FC

Player / Team Wellington

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New Zealand shines in Chile New Zealand produced one of their best ever performances at a FIFA U-17 World Cup in October, but couldn’t avoid a heart-breaking conclusion at the hands of Brazil in the Round of 16.

Although a penalty on the last kick of the game ultimately ended New Zealand’s impressive run, there were plenty of highlights to come from their time in Chile.

The Oceania representatives qualified beyond the group stage for the third time, finishing second thanks to an injury-time goal from Lucas Imrie which lifted them to a 2-1 victory over Paraguay in their final group match.

Earlier in the campaign things got off to a rough start for the New Zealanders, feeling the full wrath of France in a 6-1 defeat in their opening match.

Expectations of a victory were considerably higher when they faced Syria, but despite some strong defending Danny Hay’s men couldn’t find the back of the net, ruing a missed penalty in the opening minutes.

That left them requiring a victory over Paraguay to assure their spot in the second stage of the tournament, and deep into injury time they sealed their fate with a winner.

That result marked their third victory in seven U-17 World Cup trips, and was the first time they had scored more than one goal in a match since the 4-1 win over Uzbekistan in 2011.

While they were denied the chance to make history after losing to Brazil, the resilient performance against a world footballing powerhouse marks another important step for Oceania Member Associations on the world stage.

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COOK ISLANDS The fifteen island groups of the Cook Islands are scattered across 2.2 million square kilometres of pristine ocean. Half way between New Zealand and Hawaii, it boasts a rare beauty, a tranquil climate, warm hospitable people, dynamic cultural heritage and a relaxed pace of life.

Thousands of years of Polynesian culture sits alongside some of the South Pacific’s most spectacular scenery. Rarotonga, the largest island, boasts a blend of rugged mountains, dense jungle and glorious white sand beaches.

The islands offer an exceptional array of activities to experience from exciting cultural dance performances to lagoon tours, whale watching and fishing charters. For the adventure seeker, these islands offer no limit to your imagination.

The traditional greeting is “Kia Orana” which is a warm welcome to make the recipient feel like they are coming home.

The Cook Islands is well known for their dynamic cultural heritage, is deeply religious and passionate about sports. Football is one of the most participant-heavy sporting codes in the Cook Islands. The national body, the Cook Islands Football Association is led by long-serving President Lee Harmon and boasts 14 affiliated members and seven Pa Enua members.

Regionally, football in the Cook Islands is on the rise with the men’s team having recently secured two wins during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia™ Qualifiers – OFC Stage 1, while the women took home bronze at the XV Pacific Games in Port Moresby, their best ever finish at this event.

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AROUND THE MEMBER ASSOCIATIONS

AMERICAN SAMOA

NEW ZEALAND

SAMOA

TONGA

The 2015 FFAS National league is underway with six teams competing in the top division. Seven teams are taking part in the Seven-A-Side women’s competition. A two-day Just Play workshop was conducted by technical director Rupeni Luvu for elementary school teachers ahead of the 2015-16 school year.

Tony Readings signed a four-year deal to lead the Football Ferns after a successful tenure that has seen the side reach a number of milestones, including a best-ever ranking of 16th.

Referee Nick Waldron and assistant referee Glen Lochrie took part in the FIFA U-17 World Cup in Chile as part of an OFC Match Official trio.

Rob Sherman was named technical director of the national football department. He had previously held the role of technical director for the community game. The All Whites secured their first victory under coach Anthony Hudson, a 1-0 victory in a friendly against Oman.

Consistent form throughout the OFC U-20 Women’s Championship saw Samoa awarded the silver medal in Tonga. Goalkeeper Katarina Ah Sui’s safe hands earned her the Golden Gloves award for the tournament’s best goalkeeper.

The Association played host to its second major international tournament of the year when it welcomed four nations for the OFC U-20 Women’s Championship. A highlight for all the teams was the cultural evening hosted by TFA at Olohei Resort. A Just Play festival in Tonga helping to raise awareness for breast cancer was attended by 101 young girls. Ministry of Education and Training representative Alifeleti Fonua was the guest of honour. A FIFA Goalkeeper Coaching Course brought former All White turned FIFA Instructor James Bannatyne to the Loto-Tonga Soka Centre.

COOK ISLANDS The Cook Islands U-17 women’s team got their preparations for the 2016 OFC U-17 Women’s Championship underway with a week-long camp in Auckland, New Zealand under the watch of coach Tuka Tisam. Twenty coaches took part in a five-day FIFA Grassroots Coaching Course led by Instructor for FIFA Giovani Fernandes.

FIJI 2015 OFC Champions League semifinalists Ba FC claimed their 24th Inter-District Championship (IDC) title after a nail-biting 2-0 win over Nadi at Govind Park on 11 October. The club celebrated its victory, and its 80th anniversary, with a street parade attended by thousands of fans.

Assistant referee Ravinesh Kumar was part of an OFC trio appointed to the FIFA U-17 World Cup in Chile.

NEW CALEDONIA The New Caledonia football community was left rattled by the sudden passing of Gaitcha club president Paul Qaeze. Hienghéne Sport romped to a 2-0 victory over Mont-Dore in the Coupe de Calédonie, qualifying for the 7th Round of the Coupe de France. They made the trip to France where they were beaten 3-2 by Epernay after leading the first half 2-0.

PAPUA NEW GUINEA Papua New Guinea Sports Minister Justin Tktachenko, OFC and PNGFA President David Chung and FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup LOC CEO Seamus Marten were joined by fellow stakeholders National Capital District Governor Powes Parkop and Executive Director of the Papua New Guinea Sports Foundation Peter Tsiamalili Jnr in showcasing their collective commitment to the realisation of the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup. A preliminary U-17 women’s squad assembled in Lae with coach Frederica Sakette as the nation builds towards the OFC U-17 Women’s Championship in January. A new-look National Soccer League was announced, splitting the teams into Northern and Southern Conferences.

Manus secured the men’s Besta FA Cup title, while Port Moresby Soccer Association triumphed in the women’s division.

SOLOMON ISLANDS Solomon Warriors secured their second consecutive Melanesian Super Cup title with a 2-1 victory over Vanuatu club Amicale FC in the final at Port Vila Stadium on 10 October.

Solomon Warriors coach Moses Toata was later appointed coach of the senior men’s national team with former football and beach soccer representative Gideon Omokirio named as his assistant.

TAHITI Twenty-five futsal coaches were treated to the expert knowledge of FIFA Instructor and Spain national coach Venancio Lopez during a weeklong FIFA Futsal Coaching Course.

Kader Zitouni attended the FIFA U-17 World Cup in Chile in a match official capacity. Students from AS Tefana and Lycee Paul Gaugin’s sports section flew to Houston, Texas for a sporting and academic exchange with Awty International School. The Tiki Toa fell short in a major final for the second time in five months, losing 5-2 to 2013 beach soccer champions Russia at the 2015 Beach Soccer Intercontinental Cup in Dubai. Pirae were beaten 6-5 by Pontivy in the 7th Round of the Coupe de France at Stade Pater.

VANUATU Former Vanuatu midfielder Moise Poida was appointed head coach of the Vanuatu senior men’s team.

Vanuatu secured an emotional 2-1 victory in their second international friendly against Fiji at Port Vila Stadium. Hours before kick-off the squad were rocked by the news that former national team player Selwyn Sese had passed away at just 29 years old. VFF Just Play Project Manager Rorona Kalsakau was invited by UNICEF to attend the Pacific Humanitarian Partnership meeting. The Vanuatu U-20 women’s team greatly improved on their 2014 efforts to secure the bronze medal at the 2015 OFC U-20 Women’s Championship in Tonga.

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UPCOMING EVENTS COMPETITIONS FIFA Club World Cup Japan 2015 10-20 December // Japan 2016 OFC U-17 Women’s Championship 13-23 January // Cook Islands 2016 OFC Champions League Preliminary 26-30 January // Cook Islands

EVENTS OFC Executive Committee Meeting 27 November // Papua New Guinea FIFA Executive Committee Meeting 2-3 December // Zurich, Switzerland *All dates correct at the time of publication

NOTICES Rajesh Patel was re-elected for a further four-year term as President of the Fiji Football Association.

He is joined on the Fiji FA Executive Committee by vice-presidents Taunesh Reddy, Yogeshwar Singh and Edwin Chand. The remaining members elected during the congress on 6 October were Jitendra Kumar, Girja Prasad, Susan Wise, Jainen Sukhu, Ravin Swamy and Bob Kumar.

OBITUARIES Honourary president of FC Gaitcha and Deputy Mayor of Noumea Dr. Paul Qaeze passed away unexpectedly on 16 October. A strong advocate for the development of football in New Caledonia, Qaeze’s passing is a major loss for both the football community and the wider public.

The Vanuatu Football Federation mourned the loss of former international Selwyn Sese, aged just 29 years old.

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