PNGFA Names Final 23-Member Squad for FIFA Women’s World Cup Oceania Qualifiers

The Papua New Guinea Football Association (PNGFA) has officially announced its final National Women's 23-member squad following an intensive month-long national training camp at the PNGFA Academy in 11-Mile, Lae, Morobe Province. 

The announcement comes as PNGFA President John Kapi Natto visited the team, proudly known as the PNG Bilums, at the Academy last Saturday (February 14th), where he offered words of encouragement ahead of their departure for the OFC Women’s World Cup Qualifiers in Fiji. 

After weeks of high-performance preparation among a 40-member provisional squad, the final selection reflects a strong balance of experienced campaigners and emerging young talent. 

Established national standouts, including Ramona Padio, Marie Kaipu, Yvonne Gabong, and Megan Gunemba, will anchor the squad with leadership and experience, while exciting new inclusions such as Ginnimari Wambi — who starred for the PNG Women’s Development Team at last year’s MSG Prime Minister’s Cup — represent the next generation of PNG women’s football. 

Addressing the players, President Natto emphasised the changing landscape of the women’s game and the importance of young players stepping forward.

“Time is changing, and teams have changed. The women’s teams are changing. The older players are moving on, and the new players are coming through,” Natto said. 

“The young girls need to step up because in the future, there will be a Women’s Club World Championship. The game is growing, and you must grow with it.” 

He acknowledged the unique challenge of this qualification campaign, noting New Zealand's presence in the tournament structure, but reminded the team that opportunity remains. 

“For this qualifier, it is different as New Zealand is participating too. But there is a second spot on the World Cup pathway. You’ve done it before in 2022 when you went on to play Panama in the intercontinental playoff,” he said.

“While you are not facing New Zealand in the group stage, you must first get past Fiji, New Caledonia, and Vanuatu to reach the finals round.”

In an emotional message to the squad, Natto reaffirmed his unwavering support for the women’s program.

“Our women’s team, you are special. You have a place in my heart, as long as I am the President,” he said. 

“You have brought more titles over the past years, including being crowned the inaugural Women’s MSG Champions last year. 

“Let us have faith and belief that we will overcome these qualifiers.” 

Head Coach Ericson Komeng and his technical staff have overseen the month-long preparation program, focusing on fitness, tactical structure, and mental resilience ahead of the regional tournament. 

The team will depart for Fiji on February 23rd, with competition scheduled from February 27th to March 7th, 2026. 

PNG has been drawn in Group B alongside Vanuatu, host nation Fiji, and New Caledonia. The Bilums will play their tournament opener on Feb 27th against Vanuatu before taking on hosts Fiji on March 2nd, followed by New Caledonia on the final match day on March 5th.

The Eric Komeng-coached side will be aiming to finish in the top two in their Group to earn a spot in the finals round in New Zealand in April. 

Final 23-Member Women's Squad:

• Goalkeepers - Betty Sam, Leah Loi, and Emeliah Toks; 

• Defenders - Olivia Upaupa, Grace Batiy, Raynatha Samuel, Anastasia Gunemba, Serah Waida, Salome Taboroyan, Merolyn Sali, and Gloria Laeli; 

• Midfielders - Ramona Padio, Phylis Pala, Mavis Singara, Asaiso Gossie, and Yvonne Gabong; 

• Attackers - Keran Kalapai, Nenny Elipas, Michaelyne Butubu, Calista Maneo, Ginnimari Wambi, Megan Gunemba, and Marie Kaipu; and 

• Officials – Eric Komeng (Head Coach), Edna Thomas (Assistant Coach), and David Kaura (Goalkeeper Coach). 

PC: Monsta Photography @PNGFA