Four teams have arrived in Apia, Samoa, for the eagerly anticipated qualifying stage of the OFC Men’s Champions League 2026, which begins this Saturday at the Samoa Football Headquarters. Competing for a chance to advance to the prestigious tournament to be held in Fiji later this year are the host team Vaivase-Tai FC from Samoa, Tupapa Maraerenga FC of the Cook Islands, Pago Youth FC representing American Samoa, and Nukuhetulu FC from Tonga.
During a media conference held earlier today, coaches from each team shared their insights on the upcoming tournament and the significance of advancing to the next stage.
Vaivase-Tai FC, the hosts, are aiming to replicate their success from the 2024 qualifying stage, where they achieved remarkable results, including a stunning 14-0 victory over Vaiala Tonga SC. “The challenge is on us as we are hosting the qualifying tournament,” remarked Taumateina Tugaga, the physical trainer for Vaivase-Tai. He highlighted the pressure of hosting and the valuable lessons learned during their previous campaign. “It’s a golden opportunity to reach the second round again, and we understand there is a different level of football,” Tugaga added, demonstrating their determination to build on past experiences.
Tupapa Maraerenga FC will represent the Cook Islands for the tenth time and look to capitalize on their successful history, having previously won the qualifying stage four times, including last year. Head coach Paavo Mustonen expressed confidence in his team, stating, “The boys are ready for this tournament, especially after gaining experience last year. Our goal is to finish on top, but it’s going to be tough.” Mustonen also emphasized the broader impact of participating in such tournaments, believing that exposure at this competitive level will benefit football development back home.
Pago Youth FC, the domestic champions from American Samoa, are returning to the OFC Men’s Champions League for the fifth time, last competing on the continental stage in 2019. With a remarkable domestic season behind them, where they netted an impressive 198 goals in 20 matches, they are arriving with high hopes. Head coach Paul Ualesi acknowledged the high expectations placed on his team and said, “Preparation has gone well. Our mission is to be the first team from American Samoa to qualify for the second stage.”
On the other hand, Nukuhetulu FC from Tonga enters the tournament for the first time and is only the third Tongan club to do so. Despite their brief history, having made their senior debut in 2020, they are eager to make an impact. Head coach Lafaele Moala stated, “We are small in size but big in heart, and we are not here as tourists, but here to compete.” He indicated that qualifying would be monumental for their club and Tongan football history.
With matches kicking off this Saturday at the Samoa Football Headquarters, the excitement builds as these teams prepare to compete for a chance to make their mark in the OFC Men’s Champions League. Each team brings its own unique aspirations and determination, highlighting the rich tapestry of football talent in the Oceania region.
Leave a comment