Prime Minister Hon. Matthew Wale has wished Solomon Islands men’s and women’s national football teams well as they depart for Fiji to compete in the MSG Prime Ministers Cup.
Prime Minister Wale met with members of both national teams at Honiara International Airport today shortly before his own departure for New York to attend the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).
The Prime Minister took the opportunity to encourage the players to remain focused, disciplined and united as they prepare to represent Solomon Islands on the regional stage.
“You are going to Fiji carrying the hopes and pride of our people. I encourage you to give your very best, play with courage and discipline and most importantly make Solomon Islands proud,” Prime Minister Wale told the teams.
He reminded the players that representing the national team is an honour and a responsibility and encouraged them to uphold the country’s name both on and off the field.
“Play for each other, respect your opponents and enjoy the experience. Carry our flag with pride,” he said.
He said football remains an important part of national identity and has the power to unite Solomon Islanders, inspire young people and bring communities together.
As he departed for New York, Prime Minister Wale said he would be following the teams’ campaign and looked forward to seeing them return home having given their very best for the nation.
[end]
OPMC statement
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Cahn backs Fiji-based midfielder despite missed national camp
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Solomon Islands head coach Ben Cahn has backed Fiji-based midfielder David Supa to join the national team in Fiji for the MSG Cup, despite the player missing the squad’s preparations in Honiara.
Cahn said Supa’s club did not release him to return for the national team camp, but the coach decided it would be unfair to leave the player out because of circumstances beyond his control.
Speaking during a media conference at the SIFF conference room on Monday, Cahn said Supa had wanted to return and prepare with the national side ahead of the tournament.
“We had three players who were playing in Fiji come back for the camp and have trained with us and prepared with us, and one player wasn’t able to get the release from his club, but he will meet us in Fiji.
“It was David Supa. He did very well and was Man of the Match in the semi-final, ” Cahn said.
Cahn said the situation was difficult because the coaching staff had wanted all selected players to be present during the preparation camp.
However, he said Supa should not be punished for his club’s decision not to release him.
“David wanted to come back and be part of the camp and prepare. Given his experience and given his performances in Fiji, we didn’t think it was fair to punish him for the actions of his club,” Cahn said.
Supa’s performances in Fiji also strengthened his case, with Cahn pointing specifically to his displays in the semi-final and final.
“His form in those games, the semi-final and the final, was very strong, so he’ll meet us in Fiji. He deserves that chance,” he said.
The decision means Supa will link up with the national squad in Fiji as Solomon Islands prepares for the MSG Cup, which kicks off in Nadi on Wednesday.
Cahn said the squad selected for the tournament contains a mixture of familiar and experienced players and several new faces, with the coaching staff also looking to broaden the national-team player pool.
The coach said the MSG Cup is the first step in a longer-term programme aimed at building towards the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
Solomon Islands is expected to depart for Fiji today, with the MSG Cup running from September 16 to 18.
Photo credit: Solomon Kings FC
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SIPA backs rugby 7s with $100,000 sponsorship
BY TONY IROGA
SOLOMON Islands Ports Authority (SIPA) has thrown its support behind the national Rugby 7s tournament with $100,000 sponsorship.
The three-day Solomon Ports National Rugby 7s Tournament kicks off today and will conclude on Friday, bringing together teams from around the country, a SIPA statement yesterday said.
The tournament will feature eight association teams and four top local clubs in the men’s competition, four women’s teams and 13 high school teams.
The sponsorship was officially announced at the SIPA headquarters in the presence of SIPA Interim Board Chairman Robert Iroga, Chief Executive Officer George Rausi and Solomon Islands Rugby Union Federation (SIRUF) representatives, including CEO Alivereti Mocelutu and Vice President Carlwin Tengemoana.
Iroga said Solomon Ports is pleased to support the tournament, stressing the important role sport plays in bringing communities together.
“SIPA believes that through sports we can create good citizens in all sectors of life, especially with young people, and we want to see the widespread development of this sport,” he said.
Rausi said the sponsorship reflects Solomon Ports’ commitment to work with and support the wider community.
“SIPA is not only about the berthing of vessels; it is also about being part of the community. When a port is effective, the community also thrives, and we believe this support will surely go towards its intended purpose,” he said.
Rausi added that SIPA and SIRUF share common values through their efforts to use sport as a means of bringing people together.
“I believe SIPA and SIRUF share the same values when it comes to bringing people together through such initiatives,” he said.
SIRUF CEO Mocelutu thanked Solomon Ports for its continued support towards rugby development in the country.
He described the sponsorship as more than financial assistance, saying it represents an investment in the future of rugby.
“This tournament is about giving opportunities to rugby players in the country, turning challenges into opportunities, especially for our young players,” Mocelutu said.
Solomon Ports has maintained a strong record of supporting rugby and other sporting activities in Solomon Islands.
In 2024, the company was among the major sponsors of the Oceania 7s Tournament held in Honiara.
This year’s National Rugby 7s Tournament is expected to provide players with an important platform to showcase their talent, gain competitive experience and contribute to the continued development of rugby in the country.
SIPA said it remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote youth development, community engagement and the growth of sport in Solomon Islands.
Photo credit: SIPA
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National tournament puts new lessons into action
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
THE Solomon Ports National 7s moves from preparation to competition tomorrow when teams converge at Town Ground Rugby Stadium for the opening of the three-day national tournament.
The competition, which runs from September 16 to 18, is expected to provide a major platform for players to compete at national level while giving officials and coaches an immediate opportunity to apply lessons from last week’s specialised training programme.
SIRUF Chief Executive Officer, Alivereti Mocelutu said the referee and coaches training was specifically organised ahead of the National 7s to improve understanding of the laws and strengthen cooperation between those responsible for managing matches.
“We wanted the same thing to be here. That’s why we bring these people here,” Mocelutu said, referring to the international standard of officiating expected in the region.
South African former international referee Rasta Rasivhenge was among the facilitators brought in for the programme, which also involved Fijian referees Tevita Rokovereni and Filimoni Gadolo.
Rasivhenge, who has officiated at international Sevens, said the training was designed to ensure referees and teams could apply the laws correctly while producing a better standard of rugby.
“The most important things they need to take away from all these sessions we’re having are obviously playing the game within the law, refereeing the game within the law, and obviously executing their game plans as much as they can effectively, so that we get a good product out there,” he said.
For long-serving referee Stone Tepeka, the training has also reinforced the importance of managing matches in a way that allows spectators to enjoy the game.
“It’s not only about knowing the law; it’s about managing the game so that it is entertaining and enjoyable to watch,” Tepeka said.
The National 7s also carries a development purpose beyond this week’s competition, with the tournament serving as a pathway towards the Oceania Rugby 7s scheduled for November.
Meanwhile, the High School U18 competition provides another pathway towards the Nadi Junior Rugby Festival in Fiji in December.
With teams now preparing to take the field, attention turns to whether the investment in players, coaches and match officials can translate into a stronger product on the pitch.
Tomorrow’s opening will provide the first answer.
Photo credit: Richard Menanopo
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Cahn says MSG Cup is first step towards long-term World Cup goal
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Solomon Islands men’s national team head coach Ben Cahn has set his sights on the 2030 FIFA World Cup, saying the upcoming Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) Prime Minister’s Cup in Fiji is an important first step in building towards that goal.
Speaking at a press conference at the SIFF Academy on Monday, Cahn said the long-term objective is to establish a stronger and deeper national-team programme capable of competing for World Cup qualification.
“The long-term goal and the dream is World Cup 2030.
“We saw how well some of the smaller nations did [at the last World Cup], so we’re very serious, working very hard towards trying to do everything we can to achieve that dream of qualification,”Cahn said.
Cahn said developing a wider pool of players will be an important part of the programme, with the coaching staff aiming to have between 50 and 60 players in national-team contention over the next three to four years.
He said players from the S-League, as well as those coming through the national age-group teams, are being monitored as part of the wider selection process.
“There’s lots of players in S-League that didn’t get to come into the camp that we’re still watching, we’re still taking note of,” he said.
Cahn revealed that almost 40 players were involved during the recent training period before the squad was reduced for the MSG Cup.
While the tournament is part of a longer-term plan, Cahn said Solomon Islands will travel to Fiji with a clear objective — to compete for the title.
“The aim is to win,” he said.
The squad is largely made up of familiar and experienced players, while several new faces have also been included.
Cahn also confirmed that two players from the Solomon Islands U-19 side, who narrowly missed out during the recent OFC U-19 Men’s Championship in Samoa, are expected to join the squad directly in Fiji.
The national coach also challenged players outside the current squad to continue working hard, including those playing in the S-League, futsal and overseas.
“We’re watching,” Cahn said.
“No one gets the shirt because of a name, they have to earn that.”
The Solomon Islands men’s and women’s national teams are expected to depart for Fiji on Wednesday ahead of the MSG Cup, with both sides set to represent the country in the regional tournament.
The MSG Cup kicks off in Fiji on September 17, with Solomon Islands using the tournament as an early test of the national programme as preparations begin towards the longer-term 2030 World Cup ambition.
The Solomon Islands squad for the MSG Cup was officially announced yesterday following the press conference.
Photo credit: Richard Menanopo
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Defending champions turn focus to grand final after strong semi-final win
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
SUNRISE One has booked its place in another HNA Games Super Division grand final after brushing aside SOSA Faywright 73–44 at the Multi-purpose Hall outdoor netball courts on Saturday.
The defending champions produced a convincing performance in the semi-final, but captain Rebbie Basia says the job is not finished as the team now turns its attention to the final.
“We come back this year, come back defend the title for us,” Basia said shortly after the semi-final victory.
Basia said the team had worked to regroup following its earlier defeat to Suvania and entered Saturday’s semi-final with a clear focus on reaching the grand final.
“Mood, very focused. Everyone come together, everyone focused,” she said.
The Sunrise captain said reaching the final carried added significance for a side that has dominated the Super Division in recent seasons.
“Everyone 100 per cent confident. We come back to defend the title, so everyone 100 per cent focused on giving their best for the grand final,” Basia said.
Sunrise player and goalkeeper Miriam also described another grand final appearance as important for the club, particularly after its success over the past seasons.
“Being the champion for the past seasons, this time is very important for us,” Miriam said.
She credited the players for their commitment throughout the competition, particularly those who have continued turning up for training and developing their skills.
“It’s always our ask for the girls to put 100 per cent into the game and turn up for training to ensure we continue to build our skills,” she said.
Miriam said the team will carry that commitment into the final while acknowledging that sport can produce both victories and defeats.
“If we happen to win the season, then that’s a win for us, and it shows that all the girls put in 100 per cent,” she said.
The 73–44 semi-final victory has now put Sunrise One one step away from another Super Division championship, with the defending champions expected to use the remaining preparation period to sharpen their game before the decider.
Photo credit: HNA
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BY RICHARD MENANOPO
SOSA Faywright may have bowed out of the HNA Games Super Division championship race after a 73–44 semi-final defeat to Sunrise One on Saturday, but the young side can still look back on a campaign that marks an important step forward.
SOSA’s players struggled to settle early against the defending champions before finding their rhythm as the match progressed, eventually fighting through to the final whistle at the Multi-purpose Hall outdoor netball courts.
Sunrise coach and goalkeeper Miriam Basia, who faced SOSA in the semi-final, praised the young Faywright side for its progress and determination to compete at the highest level.
“SOSA is one team that consists of altogether young girls,” Miriam said after the match.
“For me, it’s a joy to see that one team in Super Division, full of young girls who strive to compete even with the champions. They don’t give up.”
Miriam said Sunrise viewed its encounters with SOSA positively, describing the younger players as “young sisters” and encouraging them to continue developing.
“It’s a joy always for us when we take the court with SOSA, altogether young sisters for us,” she said.
SOSA team manager Agape Akao said the semi-final had been a good fight despite the result, with the players eventually playing to their ability.
“It was a good fight. The SOSA girls played to their ability,” Akau said.
She admitted the side struggled to settle during the opening stages, with lost balls and missed centre passes contributing to Sunrise’s strong start.
However, SOSA continued fighting and produced a stronger response in the third quarter before maintaining its effort until the final whistle.
Goal attack Kerry Waita said the defeat exposed areas SOSA must work on, particularly passing, creating space and attacking the ball.
“Our passes were off, creating space and attacking the ball,” Waita said.
She also credited Sunrise’s defenders and shooters for making the contest difficult for SOSA.
Despite the disappointment, Waita said SOSA’s season had been a positive one, particularly after the side missed the playoffs last year.
“The season was very good because we made it to the top four after missing the playoffs last year,” she said.
Waita said the achievement was particularly satisfying because the team had many young and new players, making the campaign an important part of their development.
For SOSA, the semi-final loss closes its title hopes for this season, but the experience of competing against one of the competition’s leading sides provides another valuable step for a young squad continuing to develop.
SOSA Fairite reached the HNA Games Super Division semi-finals before going down 73–44 to defending champions Sunrise One on Saturday at the Multi-purpose Hall outdoor netball courts.
Photo credit: Agape Akao
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BY RICHARD MENANOPO
The Solomon Islands U-19 men’s team ended their OFC U-19 Men’s Championship 2026 campaign on a winning note, securing the bronze medal after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over New Caledonia in the third-place play-off in Apia, Samoa, yesterday.
According to OFC Media, Seltia Blake scored the decisive goal in the 73rd minute to hand Solomon Islands their second consecutive third-place finish and fourth bronze medal overall at the championship.
The two sides went into the play-off looking to finish their respective campaigns on a positive note after missing out on the final and their FIFA U-20 World Cup qualification opportunity.
Having already beaten New Caledonia 3-1 during the group stage, Solomon Islands again proved too strong, but had to wait until the second half to finally break the deadlock.
Blake found the breakthrough in the 73rd minute after being set up inside the penalty area by Player of the Match Michael Horikura.
The goal proved enough as Solomon Islands held on to secure the bronze medal and close out the tournament with another victory over the New Caledonians.
OFC Media said the result allowed Solomon Islands to “finish their OFC U-19 Men’s Championship 2026 campaign on a high.”
The bronze-medal finish also continues Solomon Islands’ strong record in the competition, having now finished third twice in succession and four times overall.
Captain Jayroll Patty also ended the tournament among the leading scorers, finishing level with New Zealand substitute Harley Hill on five goals.
Hill scored New Zealand’s second goal in their 2-0 final victory over Tahiti later in the day, drawing level with Patty in the Golden Boot standings.
New Zealand retained the championship for a fifth consecutive edition, defeating Tahiti 2-0 to claim their tenth OFC U-19 Men’s Championship title.
For Solomon Islands, however, the immediate focus will be on building from the bronze-medal finish and using the experience gained in Apia as preparation for future international campaigns.
Photo credit: OFC Media via Phototek
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Team Solomon departs for international chess showdown
BY NED GAGAHE
SOLOMON Islands’ national chess team has departed Honiara for Uzbekistan to compete in the 46th FIDE Chess Olympiad in Samarkand.
The five-player Team Solomon squad left Honiara yesterday, September 13, and is scheduled to arrive in Tashkent before continuing to Samarkand.
The team comprises of Fred Resture on Board One, Chris Kaitu’u on Board Two, Junior Lui on Board Three, Melanie Chottu on Board Four and Abel Puia on Board Five.
Simon Chottu will serve as head of delegation and FIDE delegate, with Kiki Chen as captain and coach and James Samu as assistant captain.
The Olympiad brings together national teams from more than 200 chess federations around the world, giving the Solomon Islands players an opportunity to test themselves against international competition.
The Solomon Islands Chess Federation (SICF) said the team had undergone weeks of preparation ahead of the tournament.
Preparation included training sessions at the Solomon Islands National Institute of Sport (SINIS), practice matches, notation exercises and online coaching.
SICF president and head of delegation Simon Chottu said the team’s participation is about more than competing for results.
“We travel to Samarkand carrying the Solomon Islands flag and the hopes of our growing chess community,” Chottu said.
He said the Olympiad will allow the players to gain international experience and bring the knowledge back to help develop the next generation of Solomon Islands chess players.
The federation acknowledged the support of the FIDE, National Sports Council, National Olympic Committee of Solomon Islands, Palm Sugar Café, partners, supporters, families and the wider chess community.
The 46th FIDE Chess Olympiad will be held in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, bringing together players from across the world.
Team Solomon will compete under the Solomon Islands flag as it seeks valuable international experience and exposure.
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Solomon Ports National Rugby 7s opens in Honiara, bringing teams together for three days of competition from 16 to 18 September. The Solomon Ports National Rugby 7s competition has been officially opened, setting the stage for three days of high-intensity rugby at Town Ground Rugby Stadium from 16 to 18 September. The opening ceremony& brought [...]
The post Solomon Ports National Rugby 7s Officially Opened appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
Fiji beat Solomon Islands 4-3 in Honiara to reach the OFC U-16 Women’s Championship 2026 semi-finals. A crunch clash on the final matchday in the group, Fiji always held the upper hand on the scoreboard but were kept on their toes by the tournament hosts in a seven-goal thriller at the National Stadium in Honiara.& [...]
The post Fiji Edge Solomon Islands 4-3 to Reach OFC U-16 Semi-Finals appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
Tahiti stun unbeaten Solomon Islands to secure FIFA U-20 World Cup ticket
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Solomon Islands’ hopes of securing a place at the 2027 FIFA U-20 World Cup has ended today after Tahiti produced a stunning second-half fightback to defeat the previously unbeaten side 2-1 in their OFC Men’s U-19 Championship semi-final in Apia, Samoa.
The defeat brought a painful end to Solomon Islands’ campaign after they had won all three of their group matches and entered the semi-final with strong hopes of claiming one of Oceania’s two World Cup qualification spots.
According to OFC Media, Solomon Islands started the contest strongly and came close to taking the lead in the ninth minute, with Tahiti goalkeeper Tokihi Tahutini producing a point-blank save to deny Wilkenson Siosi before Kennedy Sihiu fired the follow-up over the crossbar.
Tahiti gradually settled into the contest and threatened from set pieces, with several corners causing problems inside the Solomon Islands penalty area.
Oguen Teanihi also came close with an effort that flashed over the crossbar, while Kali Lenoir missed a golden opportunity shortly after the half-hour mark when he volleyed over an open goal.
Solomon Islands dealt with another blow before the interval when goalkeeper Jaron Faiga was forced off and replaced by Peter Mautoa. It followed the earlier withdrawal of Carlwin Wane after just 19 minutes.
Despite the setbacks, Solomon Islands continued to push after the restart and almost broke the deadlock again when Sihiu forced another outstanding save from Tahutini with a powerful effort from outside the penalty area.
The Solomon Islands side then missed a huge opportunity to take control of the match when Tahiti defender Bradley Ruiz produced a desperate clearance from almost on the goal line.
Jayroll Patty had worked his way around a defender and the goalkeeper before setting up what appeared to be a simple finish for Siosi, only for Ruiz to intervene at the crucial moment.
Ruiz soon turned from saviour to scorer.
Tahiti was awarded an indirect free-kick inside the Solomon Islands penalty area after Mautoa collected a back-pass. The ball was tapped to Ruiz, who drove a low shot through a crowded defence and into the net in the 61st minute.
With World Cup qualification now within reach, Tahiti grew in confidence and doubled their advantage 10 minutes from full time.
Keahinui Brown beat his marker down the right before delivering a low square pass across the face of goal, allowing Herehei Teaha to finish past Mautoa and put Tahiti 2-0 ahead.
Solomon Islands refused to give up and Sihiu finally found the breakthrough in the second minute of stoppage time, unleashing a powerful strike to reduce the deficit.
But there was no time for a second equaliser as Tahiti held on to book their place in the championship final and, more importantly, secure qualification for the 2027 FIFA U-20 World Cup.
For Solomon Islands, the 2-1 defeat marks the end of a promising campaign that had seen the side sweep through the group stage with three victories before their World Cup hopes were halted in the semi-final.
Photo credit: OFC Media via Phototek
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International referees bring elite Sevens experience to Honiara ahead of national 7s tournament
RICHARD MENANOPO
THREE international rugby referees who have officiated at major competitions around the world are now in Honiara, bringing their experience directly to Solomon Islands match officials and coaches ahead of next week’s Solomon Ports National 7s.
South African Rasta Rasivhenge and Fijians Tevita Rokovereni and Filimoni Gadolo arrived in Honiara ahead of the tournament, which will be staged from September 16–18 at Town Ground Rugby Stadium.
Their visit moved into its first full training session yesterday, with match officials, coaches and team management gathering at the Solomon Islands Rugby Union Federation (SIRUF) conference room at Town Ground from 3pm.
The opening session was brief, with participants introducing themselves before the day’s programme was outlined, followed by a short briefing from Gadolo.
Participants then moved onto the field for a practical session focused on tackling, including what constitutes a tackle, the role of the tackler, correct tackling technique and the arrival of the attacking tackler.
After about an hour of practical work, the participants returned to the conference room where the lessons from the field were reinforced through video and slide footage.
The participants were then divided into small groups according to their respective responsibilities, with referees working together and coaches forming their own groups.
The groups discussed their responsibilities in game preparation before presenting their key points to the wider group.
The day’s programme concluded with a group photograph.
According to information shared by Rakabi Solomons, the specialised Match Officials and Coaches Training aims to improve rules clarity, interpretation and consistency among officials and coaches who will be involved in next week’s National 7s.
SIRUF said the presence of the international trio will help “raise the standard of officiating and take Solomon Rugby to another level.”
Rasivhenge brings extensive experience at international sevens level, including having officiated at the Olympic Games, while Rokovereni has also featured on the international sevens circuit. World Rugby records show both referees among officials appointed to major international sevens competitions.
Gadolo, mea brings a strong referee-development focus, making the visit not only relevant to next week’s tournament but also to the longer-term development of local match officials.
SIRUF is expected to continue its referee and coaching development work after the National 7s, with a broader programme to be opened to existing participants and others interested in developing their skills and entering the pathway.
The Solomon Ports National 7s is scheduled for September 16–18 at Town Ground Rugby Stadium, with the competition also serving as an important domestic platform for rugby development.
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Solomon Islands held by Cook Islands as semi-final hopes hang in balance
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Solomon Islands were held to a goalless draw by Cook Islands in their second Group A match of the OFC U-16 Women’s Championship at the National Stadium in Honiara last night.
The Young Solomon Islands women team had the better opportunities throughout the encounter but were unable to turn their chances into goals, leaving both sides to settle for a point as their hopes of reaching the semi-finals now go down to the final group match.
According to OFC Media, Solomon Islands forward Janita Ereanimae was at the centre of the hosts’attacking threat, particularly in the first half, but missed three good opportunities.
Ereanimae fired two efforts wide before coming closest to breaking the deadlock when she forced Cook Islands goalkeeper Leah Schuster into a smart save with her feet.
Cook Islands also had opportunities to snatch all three points, with substitute Tetianui Pitomaki hitting the right post five minutes before the end of regulation time.
Despite creating openings at both ends, neither side could find the breakthrough as the match finished 0-0 at full time.
The result leaves Solomon Islands with one point from two matches, while Cook Islands also remain on one point.
The draw also confirmed New Zealand’s place in the semi-finals after the defending champions edged Fiji 1-0 in the earlier Group A encounter.
Bonnie Rice proved the difference for New Zealand, scoring in the fourth minute of stoppage time with a long-range strike to secure all three points.
Fiji had held the seven-time champions scoreless for almost the entire match and looked on course for a valuable point before Rice’s late intervention.
For Solomon Islands, however, attention now turns to Saturday’s final group match against Fiji, where a victory will be crucial if the hosts are to keep their semi-final hopes alive.
Cook Islands will also face New Zealand on the final match-day, with both sides needing victories to have any chance of progressing.
The OFC U-16 Women’s Championship serves as the Oceania pathway to the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Morocco 2027, with the top two teams earning qualification.
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One win against Tahiti will send Solomon Islands to their first-ever FIFA U-20 World Cup
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Solomon Islands are just one victory away from creating football history when they face Tahiti in Friday’s OFC U-19 Men’s Championship semi-final in Apia, Samoa.
Victory at the Samoa Football Headquarters will secure the Solomon Islands side a place at the FIFA U-20 World Cup 2027 in Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan — a tournament the Solomon Islands have never qualified for.
OFC Media highlighted the significance of the semi-final ahead of Friday’s showdown, with the winner not only progressing to the continental final but also claiming one of Oceania’s two available places at next year’s global finals.
For Solomon Islands, it represents another chance to finally overcome the disappointment of previous generations.
The country has reached the semi-finals in three of the last four editions of the OFC U-19 Men’s Championship, but has repeatedly fallen short at the knockout stage. Two years ago, their World Cup dream was ended by New Caledonia in the semi-finals.
Now, eight years after Tahiti defeated Solomon Islands 3-1 at the same stage in 2018, the two sides meet again with a place at the global tournament on the line.
The Solomon Islands side enters Friday’s contest with plenty of confidence after a perfect group-stage campaign, winning all three of their matches to finish top of Group A with nine points.
Captain Jayroll Patty has been central to that impressive run, scoring five goals in three matches and emerging as one of the tournament’s leading attacking threats.
Head coach Franco Ne’e, however, knows the magnitude of what is at stake.
“Everybody’s dream is to qualify for the FIFA U-20 World Cup. The U-16s have done it, and now the pressure is on us to do it too,” Ne’e said.
“It’s a wonderful opportunity that we don’t want to let slip, and we will give it everything.”
Ne’e also believes his young squad possesses the raw talent required to rise to the occasion, despite many of the players experiencing international travel for the first time.
“We must focus on ourselves. How we perform will decide the outcome of the match,” he said.
Tahiti will not be an easy opponent despite suffering a heavy 0-8 defeat to New Zealand in their opening group match.
They responded strongly, improving throughout the competition before securing their semi-final place with a crucial 2-1 victory over Fiji on the final day.
Tahiti are chasing a third appearance at the FIFA U-20 World Cup, having previously qualified in 2009 and 2019.
For Solomon Islands, however, the equation is straightforward — win and history is made.
The first semi-final kicks off at 11am Friday in Samoa, 9am Solomon Islands time, with New Zealand taking on New Caledonia in the second semi-final at 3pm local time.
The two semi-final winners will qualify for the FIFA U-20 World Cup 2027 and meet in the OFC U-19 Men’s Championship final.
With the U-16 side having secured qualification for the FIFA U-17 World Cup earlier this year, the U-19s now have an opportunity to deliver another major milestone for Solomon Islands football — this time on the biggest youth stage in the world.
Photo credit: OFC
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BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Physical Education (PE) teachers in Makira-Ulawa are being introduced to a different way of teaching sport, with greater emphasis being placed on students’ understanding, decision-making and active participation.
The approach formed part of a four-day professional development workshop in Kirakira involving PE teachers from 12 schools across the province.
The National Sports Council (NSC), in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development (MEHRD) and Solomon Islands National University (SINU), introduced teachers to the Teaching Games for Understanding (TGFU) approach during the training.
TGFU moves away from relying solely on repetitive skills training and encourages students to learn through the situations and challenges presented during games.
That means a PE lesson can become more than simply teaching a child how to pass, kick, throw or move. Students are also encouraged to think about when and why a particular skill should be used.
The approach places greater responsibility on students to read situations, make decisions and find solutions while remaining physically active.
For school sport, such methods can help children develop technical abilities alongside game awareness and confidence in making decisions.
Teachers were also introduced to learner-centred teaching and progressive skills development, giving them additional tools to adapt lessons to different ages and abilities.
The workshop linked PE teaching with Outcome-Based Education and the Solomon Islands National Curriculum Statement and also covered assessment, safety and inclusion.
SINU PE lecturer and researcher David Houpere led the core sessions, supported by NSC’s Carlson Hagemana and Education Manager Atu Balekana.
The training also allowed teachers to practise what they had learned through demonstrations, group activities, lesson planning and mock teaching sessions.
Hagemana said the workshop is only the beginning of the process, with continued support needed to ensure teachers can apply the methods effectively.
“Continued collaboration, follow-up support and mentoring will be important to help teachers apply what they have learned,” said Hagemana.
The new approach is being tested alongside age-appropriate PE activities developed by Shandong Foreign Trade Vocational College with support from China Aid and the Chinese Ministry of Commerce.
The initiative could give PE teachers another practical tool to help children become not only more physically active, but also more confident and thoughtful participants in sport.
Photo credit: NSC
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Hosts eye first points against Cook Islands
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Solomon Islands’ young women return to the National Stadium tonight with a crucial Group A encounter against Cook Islands in the OFC U-16 Women’s Championship, knowing that victory could put their campaign back on track.
The match kicks off at 7pm, following the afternoon meeting between early group leaders New Zealand and Fiji at 4pm.
Both Solomon Islands and Cook Islands go into tonight’s encounter without a point after suffering defeats in their opening matches. Solomon Islands is currently third in Group A on goal difference, while Cook Islands sit fourth.
The hosts opened their campaign against defending champions New Zealand on Monday, going down 5-0 after the Young Football Ferns produced a strong first-half performance. However, Solomon Islands showed greater defensive resilience after the break and managed to keep the defending champions scoreless for more than 45 minutes.
Cook Islands, meanwhile, endured a difficult introduction to the championship, suffering an 11-0 defeat to Fiji in the opening match. Fiji’s Adi Reva scored five goals in the emphatic victory, while Cook Islands struggled to contain the Fijians’ attacking pressure.
That result leaves both sides with plenty to play for tonight, with three points potentially keeping their hopes of progressing from the group alive.
Earlier today, New Zealand and Fiji meet in what promises to be an important top-of-the-table clash. Both sides have three points from their opening matches, with Fiji currently occupying first place on goal difference after their 11-0 win over Cook Islands, ahead of New Zealand following their 5-0 victory over Solomon Islands.
For the Solomon Islands youngsters, tonight provides an opportunity to respond in front of their home crowd and put their first points on the board.
With the tournament offering two qualification places for the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup 2027, every point will be valuable as the hosts look to keep their campaign alive.
Group A standings before today’s matches:
Fiji – 3 points
New Zealand – 3 points
Solomon Islands – 0 points
Cook Islands – 0 points
Photo credit: OFC Media via Phototek
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BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Netball coaches, umpires, officials and other leaders from around the country have been given an opportunity to strengthen their skills through an Australian Defence Force (ADF) Netball Association training programme in Honiara later this month.
The Solomon Islands Netball Federation (SINFED) has advised provincial netball associations of the opportunity, with each association encouraged to nominate one or two suitable representatives to take part in the coaching and umpiring sessions.
“The programme will provide an important opportunity for netball leaders to strengthen their coaching and umpiring skills while building stronger connections between netball associations in Solomon Islands, the Honiara Netball Association and the ADF Netball Association,” SINFED said.
The ADF Netball Association will be in Honiara as part of a Sports Programme scheduled for September 21–25, with netball included among the sports covered during the visit.
The netball-specific training sessions are scheduled for September 21–22 and September 24–25 at the Solomon Islands National Institute of Sport (SINIS).
SINFED said the opportunity is open to coaches, umpires, officials and other netball leaders who are interested and available to participate.
However, the ADF team will not travel to the outer islands during the visit, making the nomination of provincial representatives particularly important for associations wishing to benefit from the programme.
Provincial netball associations have therefore been encouraged to identify suitable representatives and coordinate their participation in the Honiara-based sessions.
The Honiara Netball Association has also welcomed the initiative and encouraged its coaches, umpires and netball leaders to take advantage of the development opportunity.
Interested participants seeking further information and coordination can contact SINFED NDO Ms Doris Dolaiasi via phone or WhatsApp on the number provided in the federation’s notice.
The programme comes as another opportunity for netball stakeholders to develop their technical capacity, particularly in coaching and umpiring, while strengthening connections between Solomon Islands’ netball community and its regional counterparts.
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BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Solomon Islands U-19 men’s side has marched into the semi-finals of the OFC U-19 Championship after overcoming host Samoa 2-0 in their final group match yesterday at the Samoa Football Headquarters in Apia.
The victory secured the Solomon Islands’ place in Friday’s semi-final, but the players were quick to acknowledge that the win did not come easily against a determined home side.
Speaking to OFC Media after the match, Solomon Islands players Steward Apaniai and Wilkinson Siosi credited teamwork, communication and mutual support for helping the side secure the crucial three points.
“It was a really hard match because Samoa wanted to win at least one match in this tournament,” Siosi said.
He added that the Solomon Islands players stayed together and supported one another throughout the contest.
“As boys, we worked together, supported each other, and communicated well. That is how we achieved these three points,” Siosi said.
For Apaniai, the result is a reward for the team’s collective effort after a demanding encounter.
“First I would like to thank the Almighty for giving strength to us boys in the game today,” Apaniai said.
“Regarding the performance of the team today, we really worked hard to fight for three points. Working together as a team, we achieved this victory today,” he added.
With the group stage now completed, attention has immediately shifted to the semi-final, where the young Solomon Islands side will have little time to rest before returning to action on Friday.
Apaniai said the team will use the short turnaround to identify areas that needed improvement, while also taking personal responsibility for his own performance.
“For the next game, I need to improve myself in all areas on the field, including my tactics. I need to work on my mistakes from today,” he said.
Siosi echoed the same message, saying the team will review its performance against Samoa before preparing for the knockout stage.
“Qualifying for the semi-final was not easy, but we will go back, review the mistakes we made today, and improve for the semi-final,” Siosi said.
The players also used the opportunity to acknowledge the support of Solomon Islands fans, both those who travelled to watch the team and those following from home.
Apaniai thanks supporters for their encouragement and prayers, while Siosi also expressed his appreciation for the continued backing.
“To all the supporters back home, thank you for your prayers. See you in the next game. Go Solo, go!” Apaniai said.
The 2-0 victory over Samoa concludes Solomon Islands’ group-stage campaign and sends the side into Friday’s semi-final with a place in the tournament final now within reach.
Photo credit: OFC Media
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Captain fires Solomon Islands into semi-finals and seals Group A top spot in Apia
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Solomon Islands captain Jayroll Patty struck twice as the Solomon Islands U-19 men’s team secured a hard-fought 2-0 victory over host Samoa today to finish top of Group A at the OFC U-19 Men’s Championship in Apia.
Patty delivered at crucial moments, scoring once in each half to settle a competitive encounter at the Samoa Football HQ and send Solomon Islands through to Friday’s semi-finals.
OFC Media reported that Patty opened the scoring in the 20th minute, finishing into the bottom-right corner with his left foot after being set up by Wilkenson Siosi.
The captain then completed his brace in the 90th minute, breaking into the penalty area before rounding the Samoan goalkeeper to put the result beyond doubt.
The two goals take Patty’s tournament tally to five in his last two matches, following the hat-trick he scored in Solomon Islands’ previous outing against New Caledonia.
The victory also means Solomon Islands have topped their group for the third time in six editions of the OFC U-19 Men’s Championship, according to OFC Media.
Despite controlling much of the match, Solomon Islands were made to work for the result as Samoa showed plenty of fight in front of their home supporters.
Solomon Islands played in good pace while Samoa relied on strong encouragement from the home crowd. The hosts also created opportunities, with one of their best chances coming in the first half when a shot struck the left post.
Solomon Islands led 1-0 at the break before continuing to press for a second goal after the restart. Samoa’s goalkeeper was also called into action to deny another Solomon Islands attempt, while the Junior Bilikiki continued to threaten from set pieces and open play.
The second goal finally arrived late, with Patty again finding the decisive touch to cap a strong individual performance and secure all three points.
OFC Media described the result as enough to send Solomon Islands into the semi-finals, where they will face the runner-up from Group B on Friday.
New Caledonia also booked their place in the last four after thrashing Papua New Guinea 7-0 earlier in the day, finishing alongside Solomon Islands as Group A’s two semi-finalists.
For Solomon Islands, attention now turns to the knockout stage and another step towards their ambition of reaching the FIFA U-20 World Cup.
Photo credit: OFC Media via Phototek
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Young Football Ferns open title defence with 5-0 win over hosts Solomon Islands
RICHARD MENANOPO
Defending champions New Zealand made an emphatic start to their OFC U-16 Women’s Championship title defence, defeating hosts Solomon Islands 5-0 at the National Stadium in Honiara last night.
The Young Football Ferns produced a dominant first-half display to establish a 4-0 lead before the hosts fought back strongly after the break, only for New Zealand to add a fifth goal late in the match.
OFC Media reported that New Zealand’s attacking pressure was rewarded early, with Jessica Ellis opening the scoring in the fifth minute after Jess Saunders delivered the assist.
Saunders then doubled the advantage in the 12th minute with a direct long-range free-kick, before Madeleine Dwyer added a third in the 18th minute.
The visitors continued to control possession and territory, forcing the Solomon Islands defence into long periods of pressure as the hosts struggled to maintain possession and build sustained attacks.
Saunders struck again in first-half stoppage time, breaking through before beating Solomon Islands goalkeeper Rose Beui one-on-one to send New Zealand into the break with a commanding 4-0 lead.
However, the second half produced a different response from the hosts.
Solomon Islands tightened defensively and showed greater resilience, managing to keep the defending champions scoreless for more than 45 minutes.
The home side, backed by a lively East Stand crowd whose chants and support continued throughout the match, also created moments of resistance as New Zealand continued to push forward.
The hosts made several substitutions in an effort to change the flow of the match, while New Zealand continued to threaten from set pieces and sustained attacking moves.
Just when it appeared Solomon Islands would prevent a second-half goal, Saunders completed her hat-trick in the third minute of added time, tapping home from a pass by Player of the Match Kodi Wilson to complete the 5-0 victory.
The result sees New Zealand begin their campaign with three points and a strong goal difference as they pursue an eighth consecutive OFC U-16 Women’s Championship title.
For Solomon Islands, the heavy opening defeat provides an early lesson against the tournament’s most successful side, but the second-half defensive improvement offers encouragement heading into their remaining group matches.
New Zealand and Solomon Islands met at the group stage for the third consecutive edition, with New Zealand also winning 5-0 when the teams met in Apia in 2025.
The OFC U-16 Women’s Championship is being hosted by Solomon Islands for the first time, with the tournament also serving as a pathway towards the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
Photo credit: OFC Media via Phototek
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Bilikiki coach J a mes Naka prepares to finalise travelling squad
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
BILIKIKI head coach James Naka is preparing to name his final 12-man travelling squad for next month’s OFC Beach Soccer Men’s Nations Cup in Tahiti.
The national beach soccer side has now been reduced from its original 20-man squad to 16, leaving four players outside the travelling group as Naka closes in on his final selection.
Speaking to Island Sun during the team’s training session at the SIFF Academy beach soccer pitch on Thursday, Naka confirmed that the final 12 players were expected to be submitted by Friday, marking an important stage in the team’s preparations.
“At this moment, we have 16 — four non-travellers and 12 who will travel,” Naka said.
“I’ll cut it down to the 12 players who will travel. The 12 players will go to the office, and we’ll send the list by tomorrow, Friday. Friday is the last day.”
The selection comes as the squad enters a more demanding phase of its preparations, with players now competing for places in the final travelling group.
Naka said the team has already spent considerable time working on fitness, but the focus is now shifting towards the tactical aspects of beach soccer.
“This time, we’re working on defending and attacking,” he said.
“Over the past few weeks and last month, we worked a little bit on fitness. So, this month and next month before we travel, we’ll work on attacking and defence, as well as set pieces — corners, throw-ins and restarts.”
With the final squad taking shape, Naka is also demanding greater intensity and discipline from his players during training.
He said the sessions must now be conducted at a higher level as the tournament approaches.
“The training must be sharp. Everything we’re doing must be on time and at a high pace,” Naka said.
The coach also hopes to use friendly matches to further assess his players before making the final preparations for Tahiti.
While no friendly had been confirmed at the time of the interview, Naka said he will try to arrange two or three matches before the team departs.
“Friendlies are very important for us,” he said.
“I’d like two or three friendlies, so I can see how the team and the players are performing and identify the areas I need to work on before the tournament.”
Bilikiki’s final selection will be made ahead of a challenging group-stage campaign in Tahiti.
According to the tournament schedule provided by SIFF, Solomon Islands will open against Papua New Guinea on October 22, followed by matches against Tahiti on October 24, New Caledonia on October 26 and Vanuatu on October 29.
The group campaign will determine the teams progressing to the knockout matches on October 31, with the third-place play-off and final scheduled for that day.
For the players currently in the 16-man group, Friday’s submission will therefore represent more than an administrative deadline — it will determine who gets the opportunity to represent Solomon Islands on the regional beach soccer stage.
With only 12 places available for Tahiti, the competition for selection is entering its final stretch.
Photo credit: Richard Menanopo
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Bilikiki coach J a mes Naka prepares to finalise travelling squad
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
BILIKIKI head coach James Naka is preparing to name his final 12-man travelling squad for next month’s OFC Beach Soccer Men’s Nations Cup in Tahiti.
The national beach soccer side has now been reduced from its original 20-man squad to 16, leaving four players outside the travelling group as Naka closes in on his final selection.
Speaking to Island Sun during the team’s training session at the SIFF Academy beach soccer pitch on Thursday, Naka confirmed that the final 12 players were expected to be submitted by Friday, marking an important stage in the team’s preparations.
“At this moment, we have 16 — four non-travellers and 12 who will travel,” Naka said.
“I’ll cut it down to the 12 players who will travel. The 12 players will go to the office, and we’ll send the list by tomorrow, Friday. Friday is the last day.”
The selection comes as the squad enters a more demanding phase of its preparations, with players now competing for places in the final travelling group.
Naka said the team has already spent considerable time working on fitness, but the focus is now shifting towards the tactical aspects of beach soccer.
“This time, we’re working on defending and attacking,” he said.
“Over the past few weeks and last month, we worked a little bit on fitness. So, this month and next month before we travel, we’ll work on attacking and defence, as well as set pieces — corners, throw-ins and restarts.”
With the final squad taking shape, Naka is also demanding greater intensity and discipline from his players during training.
He said the sessions must now be conducted at a higher level as the tournament approaches.
“The training must be sharp. Everything we’re doing must be on time and at a high pace,” Naka said.
The coach also hopes to use friendly matches to further assess his players before making the final preparations for Tahiti.
While no friendly had been confirmed at the time of the interview, Naka said he would try to arrange two or three matches before the team departs.
“Friendlies are very important for us,” he said.
“I’d like two or three friendlies, so I can see how the team and the players are performing and identify the areas I need to work on before the tournament.”
Bilikiki’s final selection will be made ahead of a challenging group-stage campaign in Tahiti.
According to the tournament schedule provided by SIFF, Solomon Islands will open against Papua New Guinea on October 22, followed by matches against Tahiti on October 24, New Caledonia on October 26 and Vanuatu on October 29.
The group campaign will determine the teams progressing to the knockout matches on October 31, with the third-place play-off and final scheduled for that day.
For the players currently in the 16-man group, Friday’s submission will therefore represent more than an administrative deadline — it will determine who gets the opportunity to represent Solomon Islands on the regional beach soccer stage.
With only 12 places available for Tahiti, the competition for selection is entering its final stretch.
Hosts carry confidence into Sunday showdown with defending champions New Zealand
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Solomon Islands will carry renewed confidence into Sunday’s OFC U-16 Women’s Championship opener, but face an immediate test against defending champions New Zealand at the National Stadium.
The young hosts go into the tournament on the back of an encouraging victory over the senior women’s national team earlier this week, providing a timely boost ahead of a demanding Group A campaign.
OFC Media reported following yesterday afternoon’s pre-tournament media conference at the Coral Sea Resort and Casino that head coach Kanto Yamashita believes playing at home can give his players an advantage, particularly through their familiarity with the local conditions.
“We train in this environment every day, so we know the pitches, the climate and conditions very well,” Yamashita said.
However, the Japanese coach also recognises the pressure that comes with playing a major regional tournament on home soil.
“At the same time, playing at home also means carrying greater experience and pressure,” he said.
That pressure will be put to the test from the outset, with New Zealand awaiting the hosts in the opening match at 7pm on Sunday.
New Zealand enters the competition as defending champions, although head coach Alana Gunn stressed that the current squad represents a new cycle.
“We have a new team and a new cycle,” Gunn said.
For Solomon Islands, the challenge continues after Sunday’s opener.
They face Cook Islands in their second Group A match on Wednesday, September 9, at 7pm, before completing the group stage against Fiji on Saturday, September 12, also at 7pm.
The top two sides from Group A will advance to the semi-finals.
Despite the confidence gained from beating the senior side, Yamashita said his players must remain grounded and remember their position as challengers.
“We have gained a lot of confidence from this result. We will never forget that we are still the challengers,” he said.
“We will approach this tournament with confidence, but also with humility and hunger.”
His message reflects the wider purpose of the championship, which provides a valuable international development platform for Oceania’s emerging women’s footballers.
Coaches from across the competition also highlighted player development and international exposure as key priorities.
For the Solomon Islands girls, however, attention now turns to Sunday night and the opening whistle.
A strong result against the defending champions would give the hosts an ideal start before they face Cook Islands and Fiji in their remaining group matches.
The OFC U-16 Women’s Championship runs from September 6-19 in Honiara, with eight nations competing and the tournament providing a pathway towards the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup 2027 in Morocco.
Photo credit: OFC Media via Phototek
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