OFC U-16 Women's Championship Semi-Finals: So Much At Stake
Tomorrow's semi-finals are more than a step towards the OFC U-16 Women's Championship title, they are a direct gateway to the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup 2026. The two winners will not only fight for the title, but also secure Oceania's prized qualification spots on the global stage.
Hosts Samoa enter the first semi-final in a confident frame of mind, having gone through with three wins, and having not conceded a goal in the tournament. They will be warm favouites to topple first time semi finalists the Solomon Islands.
Defending champions New Zealand, also undefeated in the group stage, face New Caledonia, who are looking to continue their momentum and book their first finals appearance since 2017.
Samoa
Samoa head coach Juan Chang Urrea is insistent his team will stay united and focused in their match against the Solomon Islands. Urrea says the key to winning is staying connected.
'Staying connected on the good parts and also on the challenging parts. Staying connected as one player with one heart and focus on one play at a time.' He adds the home support is a huge boost.
'We've been blessed to be at home with massive support. The support has been unmatched and we're super grateful for all the families and fans.' Chang Urrea believes this unity and crowd backing will be key in their semi-final push.
Solomon Islands
Entering their first ever semi-final at this level, head coach Kanto Yamashita is focused on keeping his players grouded.
'Our motto has been, 'We're making history.' More important than winning or losing is being a great example on and off the pitch.' Yamashita adds their goal extends past the tournament, and is confident his sides determination will carry them in their first semi-final.
'As coaches, we are looking beyond just winning now. We want this tournament to help the players grow, not only as footballers, but also as people,' he said.
'It's hard work. We must win the battle for the ball. More than tactics, it's about not losing to the player in front of you.'
New Zealand
Head coach Alana Gunn says New Zealand aim to maintain their sharpness heading into their match against New Caledonia.
'We're definitely not taking a backward step. We want to continue the momentum that we've got going. When we get a bit of fluidity, we run with it. I think the girls look good with the ball going forward.'
On New Caledonia, Gunn said her side are aware they will present a strong challenge.
'They finished really strongly, scoring many goals against a decent Fiji side. We're doing our homework because I think they'll bring a lot tomorrow.'
Though, she is keeping an eye on the potential FIFA U-17 World Cup qualification spot.
'Qualifying for the World Cup's a massive part of our pathway. It allows these girls to have something to aim for in the next 12 months of development. So, it's a really important part of the puzzle.'
New Caledonia
Head coach Kenjy Vendegou says his side has a real determination to challenge the favourites.
'We want to face New Zealand without any feeling of inferiority, to look them in the eye, and to challenge them tomorrow, even though they are the big favourite.'
Vendegou highlights the historic opportunity for his team.
'It's a great pride to represent New Caledonia. We are one match away from qualifying a women's team for a World Cup for the first time, even if it will be very difficult.'
Vendegou insists his team is ready to give everything on the pitch.
Fixtures:
Semi-final 1, Samoa v Solomon Islands, 11:00AM
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