The much-anticipated OFC U-16 Men’s Championship kicked off on Sunday afternoon in Honiara, drawing an enthusiastic crowd as local football fans turned out in numbers to witness the next generation of Pacific football talent.
This is the first time the Solomon Islands has hosted the youth competition since 2018, when the national U-16 team, featuring the likes of Rafael Le’ai, Javin Wae, and Leon Kofana made history by qualifying for the 2019 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Brazil.
Supporters are now hopeful the current squad can repeat that achievement on home soil.
Star Sports caught up with several fans ahead of the Solomon Islands’ Group B opener against New Caledonia on Tuesday, August 17, at the National Stadium.
“Our U-16 team made history last time when we hosted this competition. Now, with the national football academy and new facilities, I believe we can once again qualify for the 2026 U-17 World Cup,” said Peter Maka, a longtime supporter.
The Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) National Academy, launched earlier this year, has been praised by many as a key pathway for nurturing the country’s future stars.
“With the academy in place, I think this team has everything it needs, thanks to the people working behind the scenes. I am confident we’ll be one of the three teams qualifying for next year’s World Cup,” added fan Kevin Olea.
Another supporter, Janet Lafuia, agreed: “For this team and many others to come, the results will speak for themselves. That’s thanks to the national academy we now have.”
For others, the tournament is not only about national pride but also an opportunity to enjoy world-class youth football at home.
“I’m so happy this tournament has returned to the Solomon Islands. I’ll be sitting by the field all week to enjoy the matches,” said local fan Tatyana Nari.
Young aspiring footballer Jeffery Bakau added: “This is also a chance for me to learn new things and apply them during training.”
The Solomon Islands will take on New Caledonia in their Group B opener on Monday at 3pm local time at the National Stadium.
By TIMOTHY INIFIRI JNR
Solomon Star, Honiara
