PNGFA Host Farewell Dinner for National Women’s Team

The Papua New Guinea Football Association (PNGFA) held a ‘Farewell Dinner’ at the Hilton Hotel yesterday night (June 27) for the PNG Women’s National Team who will be participating in the OFC Women’s Nations Cup slated from July 4-9 in Fiji.

PNG won the 2022 OFC Women’s Nations Cup following their 2-1 victory over Fiji in the decider. That was PNG’s first-ever OFC Women’s Nations Cup championship after taking part in the tournament three times. 

Besides the OFC Nations Cup, the PNG women have been dominating the Pacific Games, being crowned the champions six times. They are the ‘Queens of the Pacific’, especially in the sport of soccer. 

Two years later, PNG will go as the reigning champions to defend their title. Fiji will be hungry to take their revenge, while New Zealand and other participating teams will also be aiming for regional glory.

PNGFA President John Kapi Natto expressed his appreciation to the secretariat, giving a few encouraging words and bidding farewell to the players.

“I want to acknowledge you all tonight. A big thank you to the secretariat for organizing this farewell dinner for the players,” Natto said.

“PNG women’s national team is a very strong side. I think if you look back on the women’s record over the last 24 years, they’ve won six Pacific Games medals. They are unbeatable. 

“Despite criticism and negativity, you (players) proved everyone wrong to claim the 2022 OFC Nations Cup for the first time. 

“I believe in you all and wish the team best of luck. PNGFA and the football family are right behind you all. Go and defend the title.”

President Natto also paid respect to the past players, urging the rising talents to defend their colorful legacy and make the country proud on the international stage. 

PNGFA Secretary General Amjad Tekwie echoed the sentiments of President Natto, while the Chief Operating Officer Stanley Khanna and Team Manager Vonnie Kapi Natto, also encouraged the players to give their best.

The team will travel to Fiji next Tuesday (July 1st) and settle there for three days before playing their opening game against Samoa on Friday, July 4, 2025.

PC: PNGFA