The Solomon Islands Kurukuru Futsal team are back on the international stage and will face New Zealand on Saturday.
The team departed Honiara on Wednesday for Fiji to compete in the OFC Futsal Men’s Cup 2025.
The competition kicks off in Suva on Saturday, 20th and Kurukuru will face Futsal Whites, in the opening match at 4pm Fiji time [3pm SI time].
SIFF President Donald Marahare prior to the team’s department met with the team at the Honiara International Airport where he encouraged the boys to do their best knowing they carry the country’s flag at this important competition.
As the competition set to kick off in Suva, all the futsal fans will be expecting a good run from the boys to try and regain some glory in the futsal code.
Led by head coach Dickson Kadau, the squad features a mix of experience and fresh faces, with several changes from the side that competed in last year’s PacificAus Sports Futsal Series against the Futsalroos.
Kurukuru welcomes back Cliff Sasau and Calvin Do’oro of Dawn FC, along with Owen Bunabo, the prolific striker from Matakz FC, who all missed last year’s series in Honiara.
The team also sees the inclusion of former Junior Kurukuru representative William Tahariu, who has earned his first senior call-up. The 22-year-old is set to make his official debut at the regional tournament.
Captain Charlie Otainao will once again wear the armband, with Coach Kadau praising his leadership and influence on and off the court.
The travelling party comprises 14 players and six officials. Kurukuru will open their campaign against New Zealand on September 20 at Vodafone Arena.
This year’s OFC Futsal Men’s Cup will feature five teams competing in a round-robin format, with the highest points winner crowned champions.
Kurukuru Squad – OFC Futsal Men’s Cup 2025
GK – Cliff Sasau
DF – Alvin Hou
DF – Calvin Do’oro
W – Jayroll Patty
DF – Clifford Misitana
W – Elis Mana
FW – Fred Wasike
FW – Jayson Timi
FW – Charlie Otainao (C)
W – Sammy Lalo
DF – Sammy Tovoa
GK – Leonard Auwakea
FW – Owen Bunabo
W – William Tahariu
Head Coach: Dickson Kadau
By TIMOTHY INIFIRI JNR
Solomon Star, Honiara
