The side is undergoing an intense programme of preparation as they gear up for the FIFA Confederations Cup Brazil 2013 which runs from June 15-30.
The programme, dubbed the “Path to Selection” by coach Eddy Etaeta, has seen 40 players gather every week at the Fédération Tahitienne de Football Academy in Pirae since early January as they all vie for a spot on the team.
Etaeta says he is hoping to address three key points including integrating amateur players into a global, professional competition, giving players autonomy over their training, while also taking into consideration trainings with their respective clubs, and finally, selecting a final list of players who want to represent the Pacific region at a high level.
He says the goal is achievable and the federation is endeavouring to do all it can so the squad goes to Brazil in the best condition possible.
“For us it is important to spend a week in Australia as it allows the group of players to remain prepared for the upcoming event,” Etaeta says.
“Our last outing as a team was in Christchurch against New Zealand in the October FIFA World Cup qualifiers and we need to prepare the team both in terms of tactics and mentally.”
Etaeta says Sydney FC, the 2009/10 A-League champions, offer an excellent opportunity for the players to gain an understanding of what will face them in Brazil in June.
“I think they need to confront the reality, to play against the big names of football like Alessandro Del Piero. This will allow our players to appreciate the high level, to reduce their apprehension,” he says.
“In June 2013 they are going to play against Iniesta, Xavi and Fabregas or Diego Suarez, Forlan and Cavani. I don’t want our players to be paralysed by this and the chance to play against Del Piero on February 6 is a good opportunity to try and counter this.”
Eighteen players have been chosen to travel to Australia, most of whom were present at the OFC Nations Cup, however Etaeta says four new players will be making their debut next week.
Those players are Stephane Faatiarau, Samuel Hnanyine, Tauhiti Keck and Bruno Tetuanui. AS Tefana defender Keck, at 19-years-old, will be the youngest player in the squad.
Tahiti play Sydney FC on Wednesday February 6, before encountering second division side Mounties Wanderers on Friday February 8 ahead of their return to Tahiti.
For more on Tahiti football go to www.ftf.pf

Share