OFC: The stage is set in Apia for the 2025 OFC U-16 Women’s Championship, as eight Pacific nations prepare to compete for regional glory and qualification for the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup 2027 in Morocco.
Defending champions New Zealand return with their sights set on another title, while hosts Samoa look to build on their impressive runner-up finish in the previous edition, buoyed by passionate home support.
This year’s tournament promises a compelling mix of proven contenders and ambitious newcomers. At Thursday’s pre-tournament media conference, all eight teams shared a clear message: this championship is about more than results, it’s a platform for growth, pride, and progress.
There is plenty to play for, with the tournament winners and runners up qualifying for next year’s FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cuyp in Morocco.
Led by Juan Chang Urrea, Samoa’s youthful squad enters the tournament riding a wave of national excitement following the senior team’s strong showing at the OFC Women’s Nations Cup.
Urrea said his side are proud to represent Samoa on home soil.
“We want every team to have an amazing experience in our beautiful country. But on the field, we don’t think about tomorrow, we focus on winning today.”
“This is about being examples, on and off the pitch. We’ll turn gratitude into growth and make Samoa proud with every action.” Chang Urrea said.
Under head coach Alana Gunn, New Zealand brings a balanced squad blending tournament experience and fresh talent. The reigning champions are focused on continuing their dominant run, while developing players for the global stage.
“Every match here teaches adaptability to different styles, to life on tour, to growing as athletes and people,” said Gunn.
“The U-17 World Cup isn’t just an achievement, it’s a global stage where dreams become reality. That’s what we’re preparing these players for.”
Inspired by their senior team’s historic OFC Women’s Nations Cup victory, the Solomon Islands aim to channel that momentum into their youth campaign under Japanese coach Kato Yamashita.
“Our goal is to become champions, but more importantly, to connect these players with the world through football,” said Yamashita.
“The Nations Cup win showed what’s possible. Now it’s their turn to inspire the next generation.”
With a proud footballing tradition and increasing investment in women’s football, New Caledonia arrives eager to compete under head coach Kengi Vendegu.
“I want the girls to have fun on the pitch,” said Vendegu. “Yes, World Cup qualification is at stake, but it’s also about enjoying the game and showing what we’ve worked hard on.”
Coach Marika Rondu leads a diverse squad representing the full spectrum of Fiji’s development system, from veterans making a third tournament appearance to newcomers experiencing international football for the first time.
“For some of these girls, it’s their first flight, their first time away from home,” Rondu explained. “Each game is a learning opportunity, not just in football, but in life as an athlete. We’re growing day by day.”
Tonga coach Shinsuke Okiso brings a philosophical approach, placing emphasis on mindset, self-belief, and long-term growth.
“I don’t want them to just play, I want them to leave here with greater ambition,” he said. “Playing for the national team means playing for yourself first, then for your team. I want them to feel something real and lasting from this experience.”
Making their tournament debut having won the qualifying tournament earlier this year, American Samoa marks a major milestone in the nation’s footballing journey. Coach Diane Justus sees this as a pivotal moment.
“This is history for our country,” said Justus.“It’s our first time reaching this level. We’re here to make the nation proud and show we can compete, and grow beyond where we’ve been before.
Under the guidance of Delphine Soret, Tahiti arrives with a focus on patience and technical development. Their approach is about building solid foundations for the future.
Soret and her staff are looking for progress, composure, and growth across the tournament, laying the groundwork for long-term success.
The tournament kicks off tomorrow in Apia, with Fiji playing Tahiti in the opening group A match followed by Samoa against New Caledonia.
