The stage is set in Honiara, Solomon Islands, for the OFC U-16 Men’s Championship 2025, as eight nations from across Oceania battle for three coveted spots at the FIFA U-17 Men’s World Cup 2026 in Qatar.
The host nation enters the tournament on the back of significant investment in youth development through local academies and national competitions. Head coach Henry Fa’arodo says his side is ready to make the most of the opportunity.
“I want this team to compete. That’s my challenge to the players, to approach every single game with determination, and to inspire the youth of the Solomon Islands. Football has a big impact here, and I believe we can spark the next generation to dream big.”
Defending champions New Zealand arrive with a squad well-prepared after testing themselves against elite opposition at a FIFA-hosted tournament in Switzerland earlier this year.
“Preparation has gone pretty well,” said head coach Martin Bullock. “Switzerland was a great experience, it brought us together earlier than usual and helped identify this group. We know the conditions will be challenging, but if these boys want to become All Whites, they need to embrace every environment and enjoy the ride.”
For many players, this championship is the first step on their professional football journey, and for some, their first time overseas. Fiji head coach Sunil Kumar knows the challenge is significant but is aiming high.
“We’ve been following the progress of teams across Oceania and know how fast they’re developing. Our dream is to qualify for back-to-back World Cups, that’s our aim.”
New Caledonia, a regular contender at youth level, sees this tournament as the product of long-term investment.
“This is the result of over ten years of work,” said coach Frances Watrone. “Each generation builds on the last, and we’re proud of what we’ve achieved.”
Papua New Guinea, Tahiti, and Samoa have also brought squads full of promise, each seeing the tournament as a vital development platform and cultural experience.
“Preparation has been good, last year we had two sessions before the first game, this time we’ve had six,” said Samoa head coach Valerio Raccuglia.
“In Papua New Guinea, our new U-16 youth national league is a great pathway for football development,” added Papua New Guinea head coach Mathew Witu.
At the pre-tournament media conference, a consistent message rang out from all eight teams: this championship is about growth, opportunity, and inspiring the next generation of Oceania footballers.
The OFC U-16 Men’s Championship 2025 kicks off tomorrow at Lawson Tama Stadium:
Cook Islands v Papua New Guinea – 12:00pm
Fiji v Tahiti – 3:00pm
