Chung, who arrived in French Polynesia alongside FIFA General Secretary Jerome Valcke, described the excitement ahead of two weeks of exhilarating beach soccer action.
“From my observation the LOC and the federation have done a wonderful job of preparing for this historic tournament.
“Not only is the host nation ready for action but we have two of our Member Associations participating too,” Chung told www.oceaniafootball.com
The OFC President’s recent schedule featured the FIFA/OFC Development Seminar in Auckland over the weekend but his energy levels remain high as the prospect of a first ever Tahitian-hosted FIFA event loomed large.
Tahiti’s preparations featured an extensive build-up programme that included a 9-2 thrashing of Australia and a 6-4 victory over CONMEBOL champions Argentina.
Oceania champions, the Solomon Islands Bilikiki, qualified for their fifth Beach Soccer World Cup last month and put in an encouraging show in a 6-4 loss to the Ukraine in a warm-up match.
Chung says the accomplishments of the hosts on and off the field of play and the four-times Oceania champions Solomon Islands were a source of great pride for the entire confederation.
“Naturally, we not only wish Tahiti the very best of luck hosting the tournament, but also their team.
“Alongside their Oceania-brothers, Solomon Islands, this is an exciting prospect for everyone involved,” Chung said.
The OFC President hosted a dinner for both teams in Papeete at the Meridien Hotel ahead of their opening matches.
“On behalf of all the OFC football family I wish both Tahiti and the Solomon Islands well at the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup 2013,” Chung said.
Tahiti opens its campaign with a tough showdown with the UAE on September 19. Solomon Islands face the Netherlands on the same evening.
FIFA BEACH SOCCER WORLD CUP TAHITI 2013
MATCH DETAILS
Group A
September 19, 2013
TAHITI v UAE
Kick-off: 19h00 (local)
Group B
September 19, 2013
NETHERLANDSv SOLOMON ISLANDS
Kick-off: 20h30 (local)
For the full draw and all tournament information please visit www.fifa.com

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