History and pride will be on the line when Samoa and New Zealand meet in the OFC U-16 Women’s Championship 2025 final in Apia tomorrow.
It’s a rematch of last year’s decider in Fiji, when New Zealand defeated Samoa 4-0 to claim their second straight title. This year the hosts are chasing their first title with the defending champions aiming to secure their seventh in a row.
Both sides went unbeaten in the group stages, before winning their semi finals to secure their place in the final, and qualification for the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup 2026.
New Zealand captain Amelia Hitchcock said the tournament has been both enjoyable and testing.
“It’s been really good, a really fun tournament. Playing in the final is going to be hard but we’re up for the challenge.”
Samoa captain Breanna Kitiona said playing at home makes the occasion even more special.
“It’s exciting to do it here in Samoa and represent our country and villages. We’ve seen what New Zealand can do and I can’t wait to see what they bring.
I think it’s been really exciting to see every team grow here. It’s very special to be on home soil, playing against so many different styles of play, and I can’t wait for tomorrow.”
Samoa coach Juan Chang Urrea, who has now guided Samoa to back-to-back finals and consecutive FIFA U-17 World Cup berths, said his team had earned this opportunity through commitment and belief.
“We feel blessed to be here at home. It’s a double blessing to play in the final. Hopefully, we create a pathway for Samoa football. New Zealand is a tough opponent, so we have to bring our A game tomorrow.”
Urrea praised the unity in his squad and their commitment to the plan.
“Bringing our team together from different parts of the world is not easy, but the girls believe in what we do. All credit goes to them. We’ve had several camps this year, and it’s great to see that investment paying off.”
“For tomorrow, we are excited but also realistic. We are at home, but New Zealand is a tough opponent. We must bring our A game.”
New Zealand coach Alana Gunn said playing Samoa in the final is a valuable challenge.
“The tournament’s been great. For this group of players, it’s provided a good level of challenge on and off the pitch, which is always good from a development perspective.
“Obviously, there’s a tough opponent in Samoa, looking strong through pool play. It’s another timely challenge for these girls to test their resilience and ability to back up after a tough couple of weeks.
The final kicks off tomorrow in Apia at 3:00 PM (SST).
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