The race to the final of the OFC Men’s U-16 Championship in Honiara has reached its decisive stage, with four sides now just one win away from booking a coveted place in Saturday’s showpiece match, and a place at the FIFA U-17 Men’s World Cup 26™ in Qatar.
Tomorrow’s first semi-final pits Group A winners Fiji against New Caledonia before defending champions New Zealand meet Papua New Guinea in the second semi-final.
Fiji and New Caledonia have both produced their share of attacking flair. New Caledonia stunned many by holding New Zealand to a draw in the group stage, showing they can match the region’s best. Their midfield control and physicality will be key weapons.
New Caledonia coach Frances Watrone is wary of the Junior Bula Boys.
“I think that it is no coincidence Fiji are in the semi-finals. They are a formidable team, very athletic and effective both in attack and in defence. To earn a place in the final, there is no magic formula. We will need to give everything, enjoy ourselves, and have no regrets. Despite the stakes of this match, I believe my players are ready to go after their place in the World Cup in Qatar in 2026.” Watrone said.
Fiji coach Sunil Kumar says they respect New Caledonia.
“We all know they are a powerhouse in Oceania and we are aware of their strengths. Going into the semi-final, our main focus is can we boost our discipline in terms of organisation and team structure and then stick to the plan that we have set.” Kumar said.
Defending champions New Zealand have looked every bit the team to beat, topping Group B after an outstanding 8-0 demolition of hosts nation, the Solomon Islands in the final Group match.
Their organised backline and clinical finishing have underlined why they are perennial contenders at youth level and Martin Bullock’s side are yet to concede a goal at the tournament.
“We need to play our football while being mature and smart enough to adapt if and when needed. We have had some good learning moments from our group games that we believe will help us to perform at our maximum in the semi-final.” Bullock said. “The players and staff know the big picture and our goals, so have been able to remain focused and not be affected by any occasion. We’re fortunate to have four players in our squad who went through the same experiences last year who have been able to share their learnings with the other players.” He added.
But the Kiwis now face Papua New Guinea, who won the Qualifying tournament earlier this year, and have impressed with their speed and creativity.
“In making the semi-final we are happy, but we have a big task against New Zealand who are a strong team and know their moments with the ball and without the ball. Technically, they are very good, in their first touch and last touches.” Coach Mathew Witu said.
“I respect them, as an opponent but they need to know that we (PNG) are representing our country, we are not here for vacation but for a purpose, and that is to compete. The message to the boys is play simple, concentrate on your passing ability, especially your last touches and not to allow space and time, when losing possession. If the boys can execute these plans nothing is impossible to progress to the final.” Witu added.
While the two finalists will book their place at next year’s FIFA U-16 Men’s World Cup in Qatar, the losing semi-finalists will get a second chance, with the winner of Saturday’s 3rd place playoff also qualifying for the global showpiece in the Middle East.