PNG Bilums stamp their authority in Fiji

The Papua New Guinea National Football Women’s Team, Bilums, showcased their championship credentials in the 2026 FIFA Women’s World Cup Oceania Qualifiers hosted from February 24 to March 8 at Govind Park in Ba, Fiji.

Grouped in Pool B, the PNG Bilums rose to the challenge and registered three strong victories against Vanuatu, New Caledonia, and Fiji, finishing their campaign at the top of the standings with 9 points and booking their spot in the semifinals.

The Bilums arrived in Port Moresby to a rousing welcome on Wednesday, 11 March, at Jackson’s International Airport, where the PNG Football Association staff, the players’ families, and the fans went to receive them.

Coach Erickson Komeng praised the girls’ dominant performance in the “Soft Coral Capital of the World”, attributing the team’s impressive wins to their good preparation leading up to the tournament. 

“I think our preparation was great when we left Port Moresby and flew to Fiji. We had a hard and intense training camp in Lae, which prepared us for the tournament. I think we worked hard, so we deserved to secure the top spot in our pool,” Komeng said.

“I believe in teamwork. We worked hard as a team and stuck together, so that’s why we remained undefeated in our pool. There was a lot of improvement.”

Komeng thanked the players, his coaching staff and team management, the PNG Football Association, the players’ families, and the loyal football fans across the country for their support during the tournament.  

PNGFA President John Kapi Natto commended the players, coaches, and team management for their commitment and resilience throughout the tournament.

“On behalf of the PNGFA executive committee and management, I congratulate our PNG Bilums for their tremendous achievement in Round 2 of the FIFA Women’s World Cup Oceania Qualifiers,” he said.

“Your performance has made the nation proud and has shown the fighting spirit that Papua New Guinea football is known for.

“This is another important step forward for our women’s national team. We encourage the players to remain focused, united, and confident as they prepare for the semifinals. Continue to believe in yourselves and keep the dream alive.”

The coach mentioned that the players would rest for five days and resume training on Sunday in preparation for the semifinals in New Zealand. The Bilums will face American Samoa for a place in the final.

In another semifinal clash, New Zealand will host Fiji. The winner of this match will go head-to-head with the winner of PNG and American Samoa in the decider.