Samoan-Tongan Phillip Fatialofa has earned his spot in the Futsal Whites squad for the Continental Futsal Championship in Thailand and is ready to make his mark for New Zealand.
The tournament kicks iff in Nonthaburi today and runs through to August 3rd, marking New Zealand’s first appearance since their breakthrough campaign at the FIFA Futsal World Cup last year.
Drawn in Group A, the Futsal Whites face a tough test against hosts Thailand (FIFA rank 11) and Chinese Taipei (FIFA rank 82).
Fatialofa’s selection marks a dream come true, grounded in the values of his family and culture. “My dad’s full Samoan, and my mum’s half Tongan, half English,” he said. “I was born in Sydney, raised in Wellington and I’m proud to carry that mix of cultures. It’s who I am. This call-up isn’t just for me, it’s for my whole aiga and everyone who’s backed me.”
The versatile 21-year-old has long been a standout in Wellington football circles, having played for Capital Football from U-13s right through to the National League Super League side. He also represented Samoa at OFC U-19 Men’s Championship in 2023, another moment he reflects on with pride.
Now the spotlight shifts to futsal where Fatialofa’s drive has earned him a chance to represent New Zealand.“It’s huge,” he said. “Getting that call-up came a bit earlier than I expected, but I’ve been working hard for this. I’m just pumped to get on court and show what I can bring.”
With strong support from his family and North Wellington community, Fatialofa is set to take the next step in his football journey. “I wouldn’t be here without my parents, and without the club that shaped me. This is just the beginning.”
Chinese Taipei vs Futsal Whites
Continental Futsal Championship – Group A
Thursday 31 July at 1am NZT (Wednesday 30 July at 8pm local)
Nonthaburi Gymnasium Stadium, Nonthaburi, Thailand
Futsal Whites vs Thailand
Continental Futsal Championship – Group A
Friday 1 August at 1am NZT (Thursday 31 July at 8pm local)
Nonthaburi Gymnasium Stadium, Nonthaburi, Thailand