The best up and coming footballers from Cook Islands, Fiji, New Caledonia, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Samoa, Tahiti, Tonga and Vanuatu have arrived in Auckland, New Zealand, for the 2025 OFC U-15 Boys Development Tournament, which kicks off today and runs until 23 April.
Now in its third edition, the OFC U-15 Development Tournament, delivered in partnership with UEFA Together, alternates annually between boys and girls. It provides young Pacific footballers with the chance to experience an international tournament format without the pressure of trying to qualify for World Cup at the same time as representing their countries for the first time.
“We are very excited to be offering this tournament for young players across the region,” said Owain Prosser, OFC head of high performance and education.
“For many this may be the first time they have left their country, played abroad with a team and represented their country.
“The OFC U-15 Boys Development Tournament provides many opportunities for them to develop as a person as well as a footballer, in a safe environment with an emphasis on enjoyment. For some it may just provide a positive life experience to remember. For others, it will also help to prepare them for future performance at the highest level,” Prosser said.
Each match will comprise of three thirds of 25 minutes, with games finishing with penalty shootouts regardless of the final result. As this is a development tournament focused on being a learning opportunity for the players, OFC will not be broadcasting the games or reporting the results.
The tournament supports OFC’s strategic goal to increase and improve OFC representation and performance in international competitions. To that end, the tournament provides delivery and reflection opportunities in an international environment for developing coaches and young referees.
The OFC U-15 Development Tournament could not happen without the support of UEFA Together, Prosser said.
“Thank you to UEFA Together for their partnership to deliver this event. Not only will this help the development of all involved this year but it will also inspire others to reach their full potential to take part in future editions.”
Photo credit: OFC Media