PNGFA announces Final Squad for OFC U-19 Men’S Championship Qualifiers

The Papua New Guinea Football Association (PNGFA) has announced its final 23-man squad for the PNG U-19 Men’s National Team ahead of the upcoming OFC U-19 Men’s Championship Qualifying Stage to be held in the Cook Islands from June 6–12, 2026. 

Head Coach Mathew Witu today (May 13th) confirmed the final squad following weeks of preparation and assessment, with the selected players set to represent Papua New Guinea in a crucial campaign for qualification to the OFC U-19 Men’s Championship in Samoa later this year.

PNG will face Tonga in its opening match on June 6 before taking on the host nation, the Cook Islands, on June 12. Only one qualification spot is available from the tournament, with the winner advancing to the championship tournament in Samoa in September.

Coach Witu said the team had worked hard throughout preparations and believes the selected squad is ready to compete on the regional stage.

“We have selected a balanced squad that has shown commitment, discipline, and determination throughout camp,” Witu said.  

“The players understand the importance of this opportunity and are eager to represent Papua New Guinea with pride.”

The final 23-man squad is as follows: 

Defenders 

• Bomecge Basananuc  

• Charles David  

• Christopher Eugene  

• Thomas Niebo  

• Jaru Eron  

• Raphael Kamake  

Midfielders 

• Ruel Api  

• Leightan Enoch 

• Harold Bill  

• Henry Bill  

• John Millis  

• Polos Muip  

• Albhan Rani  

• Benjamin Kila  

• Peter Yagum  

Strikers 

• Nalau Moses  

• Benjamin Bee  

• David Tita  

• Boas Tommy  

• Harrison Ima  

Goalkeepers 

• Ricky Hulana 

• Luther Rodney 

• Wayne Java 

The OFC U-19 Men’s Championship serves as an important pathway for the development of young footballers across Oceania and provides valuable international experience for emerging talent.

PNGFA extends its congratulations to all selected players and wishes the team the very best as they prepare to fly the national flag in the Cook Islands.

PNG U-19 Men’s Team Fixtures:

• June 6 - Papua New Guinea vs Tonga 

• June 12 - Papua New Guinea vs the Cook Islands

Further updates, including tournament coverage, will be shared across PNGFA’s official media platforms.