PNG U16 Boys Qualify for OFC Men’s U16 Championship Finals

Papua New Guinea U16 boys have booked a spot in the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) Men’s U16 Championship finals slated from August 15-30 in the Solomon Islands after defeating the American Samoa and Tonga in Nuku’alofa, Tonga.  

The tournament will decide which three sides will qualify for the 2026 FIFA U-17 Men’s World Cup to be staged in Doha, Qatar. New Zealand are the defending champions. 

PNG’s qualification comes after Tonga and Vanuatu drew 2-2 on Tuesday (May 6th). Though PNG has one last game against Vanuatu on Friday (May 9th), the outcome of this match will not affect their qualification, as their huge points differential and unbeaten record put them already in the box seat.

The determined PNG lads put the OFC U16 championship on notice in the opener, registering a convincing 5-2 win over Tonga (hosts) and backing their impressive performance with a 7-0 drubbing against American Samoa.  

Coach Matthew Witu gave a rundown on the team’s preparations and the focus against Vanuatu on Friday (May 9th), stating that despite being qualified, they wanted to finish their campaign strongly. 

“The boys knew they had qualified already, but we want to end the tournament on a high note,” Witu explained. 

“After winning two games against Tonga and American Samoa, we are doing morning and afternoon recovery sessions to prepare ourselves for our last game on Friday. 

“The preparation has been good. There's no injury concern. The players are fit and healthy, and we are looking forward to facing Vanuatu tomorrow (May 9th).” 

PC: OFC Media