Photo credit: OFC Media via Phototek

 

While qualification for the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup 2025 is the ultimate prize for two of the eight teams, what’s just as important at this year’s OFC U-16 Women’s Championship in Suva, Fiji, are the experiences and opportunities for the players to grow, say the head coaches.

“We’re the last team that qualified into this tournament – we’re blessed to be here,” explained Samoa head coach Juan Chang.

“This is just an opportunity for us to make Samoa proud. It’s not a results-based situation for us, but mainly how can we make Samoa proud with our actions off the field to begin with. And we understand that the way we do anything is the way we do everything. So, just taking care of the little things off the field, and like I said, it’s not a results-based situation for us. 

“It’s about how can we make Samoa proud with our actions that we do daily?” 

The sentiments around what happens off the field being significant were echoed by New Zealand head coach Alana Gunn.

“The camp’s really excited to be in Fiji. We’ve loved the hospitality so far, so the girls are having a really great time. Similar to Juan, our players are on a pathway to become the best person and footballer they can be. 

“We’re really looking forward to being able to give them the opportunity to compete against some fantastic teams and hopefully qualify for the World Cup.”

As for the captains, each expressed their excitement and honour at the upcoming opportunity to play for their 

For Fiji captain Annie May Finau, the opportunity to lead her country in her home country was a particularly special.

“Being selected as one of the 23 players is really an honour.

“Especially having the tournament at home, having Mum and Dad watching, it’s going to be so amazing.“

Lynn Aiono Sagiao spoke about what it meant to play for Samoa: “I’m so excited to be able to represent Samoa. Being selected, it was such an honour to be able to not only represent your country, but your family and what you have on and off the field.”

 

Matchday 1’s Group A action kicks off on Sunday 8 September at 12pm as Cook Islands take on Samoa, followed by host nation Fiji coming up against Tonga at 3pm. Group B commences on Monday 9 September with New Zealand against Tahiti at 12pm, followed by Solomon Islands playing New Caledonia.

All times are Fiji time. All games are at HFC Bank Stadium, and will be streamed LIVE and FREE on FIFA+