As part of the lead up to the tournament, in which the winner will join New Zealand at the 2015 FIFA U-20 World Cup, Papua New Guinea have brought 30 players into camp.
The process will see that number whittled down to just 20, a process which isn’t proving easy for Rufer given the sheer amount of talent.
“The preparation of the team is going very well. We have the final camp coming up this month before we choose the side and then the team will leave for new Zealand for some lead-up matches before flying on to Fiji,” Rufer says.
“We’ve got a very good chance because the talent in PNG is outstanding which I’ve been very surprised with.”
While he expects his side to compete strongly, Rufer also acknowledges the opposition will be equally determined to win.
“We will have tough competition against the hosts Fiji, Vanuatu, New Caledonia and Solomon Islands, but we will take each game seriously,” Rufer adds.
The OFC U-19 Championship is being held from 23-31 May at ANZ Stadium in Suva, Fiji.
For more on Papua New Guinea football go to www.pngfootball.com.pg

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