The second of three friendlies against Malaysia has seen the New Caledonia U-16 show progression after going down 4-2 after an opening 5-0 defeat.

Leon Waitronyie’s side are now gearing up for their third and final friendly this evening before they return home on Monday 27 August.

The coach said things are going well in Malaysia with the players making the most of the opportunity and experience.

“The everyday life of the group is going well in Malaysia, but we know anyway that it’s a group that gets along very well together,” he said.

“For the second game the boys performed well, they were confident with the defensive approach, respecting the advice and work we put in place up until now with a 4-1-4-1 formation.”

Waitronyie believed two of the goals they conceded could have been from offside positions, but he respected the referee’s decision.

“Otherwise the level of fitness the boys has was fresher for this match, I think they’ve improved physically and are feeling more free ahead of the third match,” he continued.

“I believe strongly that this overseas camp will be hugely beneficial for the team.”

Assistant coach Warren Saiko explained the approach for the second match was defensive first and foremost.

“We put in place a deep block in the first half, a bit higher in the second, and the players were very respectful of the coaching team’s advice,” Saiko said.

“The second half was ours.

“We need to keep working, but at the management level we are very satisfied with the investment so far. We’re progressing well and that’s good for morale to have performed well.”

The third and final friendly against Malaysia will be this evening and is live on mycujoo.tv.