In this bulletin:
1. PACIFIC GAMES — TSI demands answers over Pacific Games expenditure and procurement
2. RUGBY LEAGUE — Silktails and Storm to contest in inaugural Tui Kamikamica Bowl
3. RUGBY LEAGUE — Raiders star pushing for cup despite dodgy shoulder
4. SURFING — Fiji Pro returns to Cloudbreak as World Surf Tour marks 50 years
5. SURFING — Fitzgibbons nabs emotional win over great rival Gilmore
6. RUGBY — Tonga-born All Black Saula Ma’u eager for more after dream debut
7. RUGBY — Drua sign Skipper Cup standout Boselawa
8. NETBALL — Parsons wary of Tonga, Samoa at World Cup qualifiers
9. FOOTBALL — Rodu names Fiji squad for OFC U19 Championship
10. FOOTBALL — National U-19 Side Departs for OFC Championship
11. FOOTBALL — Vanuatu women’s team prepare for MSG PM Cup
12. FOOTBALL — Auckland FC’s FIFA Intercontinental Cup adventure ends in narrow defeat
13. PICKLEBALL — Cook Islands pickleball team departs for World Cup debut
14. FOOTBALL — Futsal Refereeing development reaches new milestone in Oceania
SOL – PACIFIC GAMES: SBM ONLINE PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 27 Aug 2026
TSI demands answers over Pacific Games expenditure and procurement
HONIARA, 27 AUGUST 2026 (SBM ONLINE) — Transparency Solomon Islands (TSI) has called on the National Hosting Authority (NHA), the Government and all responsible authorities to publicly address serious concerns raised by the Auditor General’s special audit into expenditure and procurement for the 2023 Pacific Games.
TSI said the Pacific Games were a proud moment for Solomon Islands, but national pride should not be used as a reason to avoid scrutiny over the use of public funds.
“This is not about undermining our athletes, communities or the achievements of the Games. It is about protecting taxpayers’ money and maintaining the trust of Solomon Islanders,” TSI said in a statement.
The organisation said the Auditor General’s findings highlighted serious weaknesses, including alleged unlawful expenditure authority, breaches of procurement requirements, poor record-keeping, lack of competition and failures in due diligence.
TSI also pointed to High Court findings that expenditure through the Sports Solomon Fund breached sections 25, 57 and 60 of the Public Financial Management Act 2013. The Court also ruled that the NHA’s blanket waiver of competitive tendering was unlawful.
Of particular concern to TSI are reported expenditures of SBD84.29 million for the SIFF Football Academy and SBD34 million for the Sports Legacy House, amounting to a combined SBD118.29 million that the organisation says was spent without an approved budget.
“These are not abstract figures; they are public funds,” TSI said.
The organisation has also raised specific questions over the SBD34 million (US$4.26 million) purchase of the Sports Legacy House, demanding greater transparency around how the property was valued and whether taxpayers received value for money.
TSI is calling on the NHA to publicly release the valuation report used to determine the SBD34 million purchase price, identify the valuer or valuers involved, and explain how the price was established.
It is also asking how many properties in the vicinity of the Sports Legacy House were sold for comparable amounts, saying such information would help the public assess whether the Government obtained value for money.
TSI said the public deserves clear answers to four fundamental questions: Where was the lawful authority to spend the money? Were the proper approvals obtained? Were procurement rules followed? And did Solomon Islanders receive value for their money?
The organisation said accountability should not rely simply on retrospective or backdated accounting.
“Authorities must explain what legal mechanisms were used, who approved the expenditure, and whether Parliament was properly informed,” TSI said.
TSI stressed that procurement safeguards are designed to protect public money and that competition, due diligence and proper approvals are fundamental requirements rather than optional procedures.
The organisation said the Auditor General’s findings should not be ignored and called for a clear, evidence-based response from the leadership of the NHA.
TSI further said that where wrongdoing is suspected, appropriate investigations and lawful action should follow.
“The responsibility for what has occurred rests with the Head of the National Hosting Authority, Sir Dr Jimmy Rogers,” TSI said.
TSI said the Pacific Games should leave a legacy extending beyond sporting facilities and memories, including stronger public institutions, sound financial controls and a culture of transparency and accountability.
“Public money must have public authority. Procurement must be open. Officials must be accountable. Spending must deliver public value,” TSI said.
The organisation concluded by calling on the NHA, the Government and all responsible authorities to “answer the people” by publicly explaining how the funds were authorised, how they were spent and whether the expenditure delivered value to Solomon Islanders.
TSI said anything less would further undermine public confidence in the management of public funds…. PACNEWS
PAC – RUGBY LEAGUE: NSWRL PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 27 Aug 2026
Silktails and Storm to contest in inaugural Tui Kamikamica Bowl
SYDNEY, 27 AUGUST 2026 (NSWRL) — Kaiviti Silktails and Melbourne Storm will honour one of Fiji Rugby League’s finest modern-day players when the two clubs contest the inaugural Tui Kamikamica Bowl at Churchill Park, Lautoka on Saturday 29 August.
The match will mark the beginning of a perpetual Bowl between the Silktails and Storm, named in honour of recently retired Melbourne Storm forward and Fiji Bati captain Tui Kamikamica.
The Tui Kamikamica Bowl will be contested whenever Kaiviti Silktails and Melbourne Storm meet, ensuring Kamikamica’s contribution to Rugby League in Fiji and Australia, and the pathway he represents for aspiring Fijian players, is recognised for generations to come.
Kamikamica recently announced his immediate retirement from Rugby League on medical grounds, bringing to a close an outstanding career that included 142 NRL appearances for Melbourne Storm and 23 Test matches for the Fiji Bati.
He was part of Melbourne Storm’s 2017 and 2020 Premiership-winning squads, played in 15 NRL Finals matches, including the 2024 and 2025 NRL Grand Finals, and was named Storm’s Most Improved Player in 2019.
Kamikamica’s journey began in Fiji before he moved to Australia in 2013, initially joining Parramatta’s Under 20s programme. Following a brief period in rugby union, he continued his development with the Sunshine Coast Falcons before joining Melbourne Storm in 2016.
He would ultimately become one of the NRL’s most respected Fijian players and, in 2023, was appointed captain of the Fiji Bati.
“It is an honour for me and my family to be named for the Bowl games between the Silktails and Storm this week and for all future games,” Kamikamica said.
“I truly appreciate all the love and support and I am looking forward to coming over for the game.”
Kaiviti Silktails CEO Stephen Driscoll, who developed the club’s Bowl Match concept to recognise legendary Fijian players associated with opposing clubs, said Kamikamica was an ideal person to be honoured through the Storm fixture.
“I watched Tui’s journey from when he first arrived from Fiji, playing in the NYC competition with the Eels and then developing through the Queensland Cup with the Sunshine Coast,” Driscoll said.
“I also had the pleasure of working with him through various Fiji Bati campaigns I was involved in, so I have been able to see first-hand not only his development as a footballer, but the person and leader he became.”
“To see him go on from playing secondary school rugby here in Fiji to becoming an NRL Premiership winner, a Melbourne Storm Life Member and captain of the Fiji Bati is an incredible achievement.”
“To now have Tui join the list of legends we honour as part of our annual Bowl Matches is so fitting. His rugby league journey truly represents what this club is all about and why our Chairman, Petero Civoniceva, founded the Kaiviti Silktails.”
“Our young players need to be able to look at someone like Tui and understand that the journey from the school grounds and villages of Fiji to the highest levels of the NRL is possible.”
Kaiviti Silktails founder and Chairman Petero Civoniceva said Kamikamica’s career embodied the pathway the Silktails was established to create for young Fijian players.
“As a former Fiji Bati captain, it has been an honour watching Tui’s career unfold,” Civoniceva said.
“I’ve also had the pleasure of working with Tui as part of various Fiji Bati campaigns, and he epitomises everything that is good about Fijians.
“As the founder and Chairman of the Kaiviti Silktails, Tui’s rugby league journey truly represents why I founded this club and what this club can ultimately lead to for a young Fijian from the village.
“For a young player in Fiji to be able to see the journey Tui has taken, from Fiji to the NRL, winning Premierships and ultimately captaining his country, shows them what is possible.
“To have this game named after Tui is just so fitting for him and his family. His name and his journey will now become part of this fixture for years to come, and that is something we are extremely proud of.”
The inaugural Tui Kamikamica Bowl will be played as part of the NSW Jersey Flegg Cup at Churchill Park Lautoka on Saturday 29 August 2026 (kick-off 11am Fiji Time/9am AEST)…. PACNEWS
PAC – RUGBY LEAGUE: AAP PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 27 Aug 2026
Raiders star pushing for cup despite dodgy shoulder
CANBERRA, 27 AUGUST 2026 (AAP) — Centre Simi Sasagi is so desperate to represent Samoa that he wants to delay a much-needed shoulder surgery to feature in the Rugby League World Cup.
Sasagi has made a compelling case to represent the Pacific nation in the tournament beginning in October as he’s displayed his electric playmaking skills, lethal try scoring and blistering runs for Canberra this NRL season.
But the centre has had his campaign partially derailed by a flurry of injuries, including a constant flare-up of his shoulder.
He missed the Raiders’ round-24 clash against Cronulla after coach Ricky Stuart said he shouldn’t be playing considering the discomfort he was in the week before.
The 25-year-old returned last Friday against Brisbane where he registered two try assists, despite virtually playing with one arm.
When asked whether he would delay the surgery to push for a World Cup spot, he said ‘yes’.
“That’s what I want to do. The World Cup is one of my goals,” Sasagi said.
“You want to play with the best of the best and there’s a lot of big names putting their hand up.
“I’m a proud Samoan boy, and that’s the team I’ve wanted to play for as a kid.”
Featuring for Samoa is even more attractive considering the star power they boast like prop Payne Haas, half Jarome Luai, fullback Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow and winger Brian To’o.
But despite the excitement surrounding the country and their strong hopes of winning the competition, Sasagi is remaining realistic things may not work out.
“I’ll see if I can push for Townsville (next round). I’ll try to push for the World Cup at the end of the year, but we’ll just go with the flow and see if my shoulder holds up,” the centre said.
“I don’t want to go push for a World Cup and play with one arm again. I want to represent Samoa to the best of my abilities.
“So if I have to, I’ll get surgery and put my best sporting foot forward for next year.”
Even if Sasagi’s shoulder ultimately fails, he’s still hoping to recruit teammate Josh Papali’i.
The veteran prop announced his retirement at the end of the season but left the door ajar to play for either Samoa or the Cook Islands in the competition.
“If I do play for Samoa, I’ll try and get him to play for Samoa,” Sasagi said before admitting he might have to lure the 34-year-old with treats from the Pacific nation.
“I think he said Cook Islands was an option, but he hasn’t … said anything.”…. PACNEWS
FIJI – SURFING: FIJI GOVT PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 27 Aug 2026
Fiji Pro returns to Cloudbreak as World Surf Tour marks 50 years
SUVA, 27 AUGUST 2026 (FIJI GOVT) — Cloudbreak is once again in the global spotlight as the 2026 Fiji Pro Presented by Corona Cero brings some of the world’s best surfers to Fiji for Stop 8 of the World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour.
The event was officially opened earlier this week by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Viliame Gavoka, at the Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay.
This year’s competition brings together 24 women and 36 men from 16 countries as the Championship Tour celebrates its 50th season. Fiji’s Teah Kurop and Teo Degei have also joined the field as local wildcards.
“Cloudbreak is one of the great surfing stages anywhere in the world, and it is ours. This event places our waves, and with them our people, our culture and our place, before every market that matters to us,” DPM Gavoka said.
The Fiji Pro continues to deliver benefits beyond the competition. Last year’s event generated close to US$7 million in brand exposure for Fiji and injected approximately FJ$2.6 million (US$1.3 million) directly into the local economy. It also attracted 7.77 million views worldwide and more than 4,000 media placements across over 30 countries.
The event also supports Fiji’s efforts to grow sustainable tourism and spread visitor spending beyond traditional peak travel periods.
Community and environmental initiatives remain an important part of the Fiji Pro. Last year, 17 initiatives were delivered across indigenous recognition, community benefit and environmental protection, including a youth surf clinic and coastal clean-up. The Cloudbreak Surf Tower, constructed in 2024, also remains a lasting asset for the host communities of Momi and Nabila.
WSL Asia Pacific President Andrew Stark acknowledged the Fiji Government, Tourism Fiji and host communities for their continued partnership and confirmed that the Fiji Pro is secured on the Championship Tour calendar through to 2029.
The event continues to position Fiji on the international sporting stage while showcasing the country’s world-class waves, communities, culture and tourism experiences to a global audience…. PACNEWS
PAC – SURFING: AAP PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 27 Aug 2026
Fitzgibbons nabs emotional win over great rival Gilmore
SUVA, 27 AUGUST 2026 (AAP) — Steph Gilmore’s tough return to the championship surf tour has continued, with the eight-time world champion knocked out in the first round by fellow Australian Sally Fitzgibbons at the Fiji Pro.
Gilmore was edged 9.97 to 8.37 by Fitzgibbons in their showdown on Wednesday in four-to-eight foot waves at Cloudbreak.
It marked the sixth time from eight events this season Gilmore has been knocked out in the first round in what has been a tough return to the tour following a two-year sabbatical.
The 38-year-old’s only joy so far this season was her stunning win at the Gold Coast Pro in May for a 34th Championship Tour victory.
Two-time world champion Tyler Wright was another high-profile Australian to fall in round one, pipped by Francisca Veselko by just 0.17 of a point.
But it was better news for Isabella Nichols, who secured her spot in the second round with a 9.33 to 3.80 victory over Ulukilupetea Kurop.
Fitzgibbons, who takes on five-time world champion Carissa Moore in round two, dedicated her win to former Surfing Australia chief executive Mark Lane, who died over the weekend following a long battle with cancer.
“That one was for you Laney,” Fitzgibbons said.
“He was a true legend of our surf community. He was with me when I was 13, 14 on Team Australia. I’m sending all my love to his family and friends.”
Fitzgibbons wasn’t even meant to take on Gilmore in round one, but the withdrawal of American Caitlin Simmers due to injury meant organisers had to shake up the schedule.
That pitted Fitzgibbons against Gilmore in a repeat of the 2014 Fiji Pro final, which was won by Fitzgibbons.
“It was back to the clash of the vets. We were reliving our heyday, our 2014 final,” Fitzgibbons said.
“It’s why you still do it. I think the universe was at play there because we were in separate parts of the draw (initially).”
Fitzgibbons and Gilmore didn’t give an inch, with both desperate to gain the early priority.
“It’s a 20-year rivalry, you’ve got to have that. That energy around it, that spark,” Fitzgibbons said.
“I love surfing against the new generation that pushes you also, but there’s nothing like it (against your old rivals).
“That bitter taste of all the defeats your rivals handed to you – you just want to go out there and smash them.”
The highlight of the women’s opening around was a huge, 10-point barrel ride from Canadian Erin Brooks, who crushed Australian Sophie McCulloch.
Four of the men’s 16 round-two heats were also contested on Wednesday, with Australian Ethan Ewing the biggest casualty after falling to American Cole Houshmand.
Seth Moniz, Yago Dora and Kanoa Igarashi all booked spots in the third round…. PACNEWS
PAC – RUGBY: RNZ PACIFIC PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 27 Aug 2026
Tonga-born All Black Saula Ma’u eager for more after dream debut
WELLINGTON, 27 AUGUST 2026 (RNZ PACIFIC) — Tonga-born All Black prop Saula Ma’u made his debut in the black jersey in South Africa on Wednesday morning (NZT) and says he is eager for more top international matches.
Ma’u was called up as an injury replacement last week, and took the field with 20 minutes to go at Ellis Park and helped the All Blacks come from 35-17 down to winning the match 41-35.
Emotional and fighting back tears post-match, Ma’u told reporters he was over the moon and would savour the “unreal” moment for life.
“I was talking to this guy before, like a couple weeks ago, I was back at home playing for Otago, and then two weeks later, I’m playing for the All Blacks,” the Havelu village native from Tongatapu said.
“It just feels amazing, unreal, because obviously there was always a goal of mine to one day to play for the All Blacks.
“Just coming into camp last week, just feels crazy to be in that environment. The boys been making me feel welcome. The coaches just getting me up to speed, and yeah, it’s a dream come true. And then obviously, I I want more of it.”
Ma’u, born on 29 April 2000, left Tonga when he was 15 and enrolled at Auckland Grammar.
His pathway took him through Otago, where in 2021 he made the team for the National Provincial Championship (NPC), before a call up to the Highlanders in 2022.
He has been with the franchise since and was in the thick of things during the NPC over the last three weeks.
Last week, he jetted to South Africa to join the All Blacks on ‘The Greatest Rivalry’ tour as a replacement for fellow prop Ollie Norris.
On Wednesday morning, he came off the bench to make his debut, in front of vocal Lions fans at Ellis Park, stating his first taste of international rugby in the black jersey was a tough one.
“It was a bit hard, tougher compared to Super Rugby,” Ma’u said.
“Just the speed, and obviously that’s what Renz (Dave Rennie) is hard on, it’s our work ethic, and yeah, just working hard.”
Ma’u said the scrum contests were tough, and he watched the Lions push and dismantle the All Blacks scrums a few times from the bench, before getting his chance to lock horns with them when his turn came.
“Well, we’re just trying to focus on us, what we’re doing, with how we’re prepping throughout the week,’ he said.
“We’re just training hard, working like many connections with hookers, back five, yeah. Scrum came good though. Came good at the end of the game.
“Credit to the to the back five and the work we did throughout the week, and obviously Jason (Jason Ryan) has been making us work hard in our scrums, like watching videos of the other team, making sure we’re ready for what’s coming on game day.”
Officially All Blacks no 1242, said he just hoped he made his family and village proud before he broke down in tears.
“I just want to say thank to the Heavenly Father for the blessings he gave me to wear the black jersey,” he said.
“Obviously my friends and families back home, my partner, Mum and Dad, and then yeah, just grateful for the coaching staff for the All Blacks for allowing me and giving me a chance to represent my family and my friends, and my village back home.
“Hopefully I have made them proud.”
Ma’u formed a strong front row combination with fellow substitutes Bradley Slater and Xavier Numia as the All Blacks maintained a perfect record in South Africa tour.
Meanwhile, fellow Pasifika heritage players Emoni Narawa and Rieko Ioane scored a double each in the win against the Lions, while Noah Hotham got a try.
The match-day 23 also featured Tongan heritage player Richie Mounga making his return to the All Blacks since 2023.
The side was captained by veteran Blues captain and Samoan heritage player Patrick Tuipulotu.
The All Blacks have won all five matches so far, including a Test against the Springboks. They face South Africa again in the second Test on Sunday morning (NZT)…. PACNEWS
FIJI – RUGBY: FBC SPORTS PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 27 Aug 2026
Drua sign Skipper Cup standout Boselawa
SUVA, 27 AUGUST 2026 (FBC SPORTS) — The Swire Shipping Fijian Drua has added another promising local talent to its ranks, signing Nadroga centre Kavekini Boselawa as a senior development player.
Boselawa earned the opportunity after impressing incoming Drua head coach Brad Mooar and club officials during the opening round of this year’s Skipper Cup competition.
The powerful midfielder, who hails from Naduri in Macuata and has maternal links to Nadrala in Nadroga, is another product of Fiji’s domestic rugby pathway to be rewarded with a chance to progress to Super Rugby Pacific.
Unlike many of his peers, Boselawa came to rugby relatively late. He played soccer throughout his school years at Nadrala Sangam School and Sigatoka Methodist College before taking up rugby at the age of 19 while studying land surveying at Fiji National University.
His rise through the ranks has been rapid, establishing himself with Nadrala Rugby Club and later Nadroga in provincial rugby.
Boselawa described the signing as an emotional moment.
“I am happy and quite emotional and thank the Lord for this opportunity.”
He credits his father, a former outside back and midfielder, for shaping both his character and rugby career.
“My Tou has had the biggest influence on me as a man and on my rugby journey. He has always shared the importance of putting God first in everything we do and everything else will follow.”
The young centre says he is eager for the opportunity to play in front of Drua supporters.
“Nothing beats playing at home, in front of our home crowd and especially family.”
Head coach Brad Mooar says Boselawa immediately caught his attention during a Skipper Cup match in Lautoka.
“Kavekini immediately stood out when I watched him in Lautoka in July. Our leadership team tracked him over the last month and he has all the attributes we demand from our backs.”
Mooar says the signing reflects the Drua’s commitment to identifying and developing local talent.
“This is what it’s all about, scouring local club rugby and giving homegrown talent a pathway to thrive.”
Boselawa now joins the Drua development programme and will be looking to push for a place in the club’s Super Rugby Pacific squad in the future…. PACNEWS
PAC – NETBALL: FBC SPORTS PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 27 Aug 2026
Parsons wary of Tonga, Samoa at World Cup qualifiers
SUVA, 27 AUGUST 2026 (FBC SPORTS) — Crest Fiji Pearls head coach Michelle Parsons believes hosts Tonga and regional rivals Samoa will be among the biggest obstacles standing between Fiji and qualification for the Netball World Cup.
The Pearls are preparing for next month’s qualifiers in Tonga, where the region’s top teams will compete for places at the global tournament.
Parsons says Tonga enters the competition as one of the favourites, given its strong world ranking and recent international performances.
“I think Tonga and Samoa are obviously the teams that are ranked really high, and Tonga has legitimately put themselves on the calendar by being eighth in the world and competing really well at the Commonwealth Games.”
The coach believes the hosts will be especially dangerous with the advantage of playing in familiar surroundings and in front of their home supporters.
“With it being a home qualifier for them, I think they’re the biggest threat right now, so definitely Tonga and Samoa.”
Despite identifying the two Polynesian nations as the leading contenders, Parsons insists the Pearls will not underestimate the rest of the field.
“The Cook Islands and Papua New Guinea have invested a lot in their development, so we’re very respectful of everybody.”
The Fiji Pearls will travel to Tonga next month aiming to secure one of the qualification spots available for the Netball World Cup…. PACNEWS
FIJI – FOOTBALL: FBC SPORTS PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 27 Aug 2026
Rodu names Fiji squad for OFC U19 Championship
SUVA, 27 AUGUST 2026 (FBC SPORTS) — Fiji Under-19 head coach Marika Rodu has named a 23-member squad for next month’s OFC U-19 Men’s Championship in Samoa.
The national side has been drawn in Group B alongside New Zealand, Tahiti and Vanuatu, with the tournament set to run from 1 to 14 September.
Fiji opens its campaign against Vanuatu on September 2 before facing tournament favourites New Zealand on September 5. Rodu’s side will conclude its pool matches against Tahiti on 8 September.
The squad features a blend of talent across all positions, with Usaia Tamaniqio, Maleli Tawake and Frank Dansey selected as goalkeepers.
The defenders are Manasa Kubucaucau, Krishna Junior, Farhaan Khan, Delon Shankar, Teimana Goundar, Bilal Khan and Ame Lutu.
Named in midfield are Nicholas Franklin, Maikah Dau, Ryan Naresh, Abdullah Khairati, Akuila Vata and Waisea Naicovu.
The winger positions will be filled by Jovesa Uqe, Ibraheem Afazal, Jai Naidu and Meli Vuilabasa, while Shivkrant Kumar, Apenisa Dulukobau and Semi Natinavou have been selected as forwards.
The top two teams from each group will progress to the semi-finals on 11 September, with the final and third-place playoff scheduled for 14 September.
Rodu will be assisted by Dhirend Chand, while Saten Prasad serves as team manager and Iosevo Vosoboto takes up the role of goalkeeper coach…. PACNEWS
SOL – FOOTBALL: SOLOMON STAR PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 27 Aug 2026
National U-19 Side Departs for OFC Championship
HONIARA, 27 AUGUST 2026 (SOLOMON STAR) — The journey to the 2027 FIFA U-20 World Cup has commenced for the Solomon Islands National Men’s U-19 Football Team.
A squad of 23 players and seven officials left Honiara on Wednesday for the 2026 OFC Men’s U-19 Championship which will run from 1 to 14 September in Samoa.
They are determined to secure one of the two available OFC qualification spots for next year’s FIFA U-20 World Cup.
Speaking to Star Sports earlier this week, Head Coach Franco Ne’e said preparations have been positive, with the team now focused on making history.
“Preparations have been very good. We have been preparing for two months now, and we are getting the team ready and everyone is looking forward to the competition,” he said.
“It all comes back to the team and the support they are getting, especially from their families. We have faith in ourselves that we will go and earn a spot.”
The Solomon Islands have been drawn in Group A alongside hosts Samoa, New Caledonia and Papua New Guinea.
Ne’e acknowledged that the group will be challenging but said his team is ready for the test.
“It is not an easy pool. We have PNG, who have come a long way after qualifying for the competition earlier this year, so they have been together for some time now,” he said.
“Samoa will have the home crowd behind them, which will not be easy, while New Caledonia will be looking to build on their World Cup qualification from 2024 after finishing runners-up.
“So, it will be a tough and exciting competition, but we are ready to give our all,” he added.
As in the previous edition, the 2026 OFC Men’s U-19 Championship will see the champions and runners-up secure the two OFC qualification spots for the 2027 FIFA U-20 World Cup, which will be hosted by Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan.
Meanwhile, following their opening match against Papua New Guinea on September 1, the Solomon Islands will face New Caledonia on September 4 before concluding their group-stage campaign against hosts Samoa on 7 September…. PACNEWS
VAN – FOOTBALL: VANUATU DAILY POST PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 27 Aug 2026
Vanuatu women’s team prepare for MSG PM Cup
PORT VILA, 27 AUGUST 2026 (VANUATU DAILY POST) — Vanuatu’s women’s football team is stepping up preparations for the upcoming Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) Prime Minister’s (PM) Cup, with the final squad expected to be announced this Friday.
Head coach Emerson Alcantara has been leading the team through training for the past two weeks as the squad prepares for its second appearance in the competition following its inaugural campaign last year.
Alcantara will be assisted by Gibson Daudau, while Ken Kanegai will serve as the goalkeeping coach.
A total of 25 players are currently in the pre-squad, with that number set to be reduced to the final 23 on Friday.
Coach Alcantara said around 85 percent of the players are expected to make the final squad, with most of the players coming from Penama and Tafea FC.
He said he has confidence in the players, particularly because many of them already have valuable competition experience.
The coach also acknowledged the contribution of the national women’s development programme, led by National Women’s Development Officer Myriam Malao.
The programme has provided players with regular opportunities to compete in tournaments, helping them gain experience and remain prepared for higher-level competition.
Alcantara believes Vanuatu has a strong chance of winning this year’s tournament because the players now have experience against several of the teams they will face.
Vanuatu finished third in last year’s inaugural tournament. The team lost 3–1 to Fiji in the semi-final before bouncing back strongly in the third-place playoff, defeating Solomon Islands 4–2 to secure third place.
This year, Alcantara says the team’s commitment is at 100 percent as they look to improve on last year’s performance.
Technical training was completed last week, and the team is expected to play a friendly match before departure as part of its final preparations.
Defending champions Papua New Guinea will return to defend their women’s title. They will face Vanuatu, Solomon Islands, Fiji and New Caledonia, who withdrew from last year’s competition but will return to the tournament this year.
With preparations continuing and the final squad to be confirmed on Friday, Vanuatu’s women are hoping their increased experience, development opportunities and strong commitment can help them challenge for the MSG PM Cup title…. PACNEWS
PAC – FOOTBALL: OFC PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 27 Aug 2026
Auckland FC’s FIFA Intercontinental Cup adventure ends in narrow defeat
RIYADH, 27 AUGUST 2026 (OFC) — OFC Pro League champions Auckland FC have suffered elimination in the first round of FIFA Intercontinental Cup™ 2026, after losing 1-0 to AFC Champions League Elite winners Al-Ahli FC at the King Abdullah Sports City Stadium in Jeddah.
Tasting FIFA competition for the first time, Auckland struggled to adjust to the hot conditions and came unstuck to a second half goal from Al-Ahli substitute Abu Al-Shamat in the African-Asian-Pacific Play-off phase of the tournament.
OFC Pro League Golden Ball winner Daniel Normann started in midfield for Auckland FC, with five of his Pro League title-winning teammates on the bench, whilst Al-Ahli’s starting eleven featured a cast of former European headliners in contrast, including Ivan Toney, Francesco Trincao, Edouard Mendy, and Roger Ibanez.
The Black Knights did a good job of keeping their star-studded opposition at bay through a goalless first half though, creating the better of the chances in front of an intimidating crowd in Jeddah.
Both of their best opportunities fell to New Zealand international winger Logan Rogerson. First, he forced Mendy to divert the ball away at his near post from a run down the left-hand side of the box, before luring the goalkeeper into an acrobatic save from the top-right corner following a header from a free kick delivery.
Trincao and Galeno both had lively moments for the Asian champions, but it wasn’t until coach Marino Pušić turned to his bench in the second half that the Al-Ahli attack finally found the breakthrough. Al-Shamat pierced the back of the net with his first touch in the 63rd minute, poking the ball through the legs of goalkeeper Michael Woud after being played in-behind the Auckland FC defence by Eduard Spertsyan.
Al-Shamat almost set up a second five minutes later too, only for Trincao to pull his left-footed effort inches wide of the right post from inside the box.
His goal proved the game’s defining moment though, and things got worse for Auckland when Sam Cosgrove was shown a straight red card with three minutes of normal time to play for collecting an opponent on the follow-through.
Pro League-winning squad members Ronan Wynne and Van Fitzharris made appearances off the bench, but neither were able to get the OFC representatives back in the contest, as Al-Ahli progressed at Auckland FC’s expense.
Al-Ahli FC: 1 (Abu AL-SHAMAT 63’)
Auckland FC: 0
HT: 0-0…. PACNEWS
COOKS – PICKLEBALL: COOK ISLANDS NEWS PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 27 Aug 2026
Cook Islands pickleball team departs for World Cup debut
RAROTONGA, 27 AUGUST 2026 (COOK ISLANDS NEWS) — Pickleball Cook Islands is pumped, set and heading to Da Nang, Vietnam, for the 2026 Pickleball World Cup from 30 August to 6 September, in a historic first for the nation.
The national team departed Rarotonga this week.
The event will be only the third Pickleball World Cup, following the inaugural tournament in Peru in 2024 and last year’s event in Florida, United States.
More than 60 countries are expected to be represented at this year’s tournament, up from about 50 in 2025. Vietnam’s hosting of the event also reflects the rapid growth of pickleball across Asia, where investment in the sport and its infrastructure has increased significantly.
Pickleball Cook Islands co-vice president Mike Steele said regional cooperation would be important to the sport’s future.
“There’s a real opportunity for us as an Oceania region to grow pickleball together. We can create stronger competitions, share experience and develop pathways for our players – and together we have our sights on the Olympics in 2032.”
The surging sports federation, which was established about 18 months ago, views its World Cup campaign as an important step in developing the competitive and high-performance side of the sport locally.
The Cook Islands contingent will first compete in the International Pickleball Tournament – Pickleball World Cup Edition, featuring singles, doubles and mixed doubles competitions.
That will be followed by the World Cup team event, where the Open and Senior squads will compete for the Cook Islands.
The pre-tournament will give players international match experience immediately before the team competition, while allowing coaches to assess form, combinations and strategy under tournament conditions.
Also representing the Cook Islands in the International Tournament will be Apii McLeod, Paul Lynch and Tina Tumupu, who have trained alongside the World Cup squad throughout the campaign and shown significant improvement.
Their inclusion reflects PCI’s broader focus on developing players and expanding the competitive base of the sport in the Cook Islands.
Preparation for Vietnam has seen PCI introduce a more structured training programme, with World Cup squad members attending dedicated sessions every Thursday from 5am to 7am and Saturdays from 12 noon to 2pm.
Players have also taken part in regular member sessions and additional court time during the week, with training covering fitness, skills, strategy and combinations across singles, men’s and women’s doubles and mixed doubles.
Some players have also travelled overseas to access higher-level competition and coaching.
Open team players Tayla Beddoes and Anna Edwards, both based on Rarotonga, have travelled to Auckland to train and compete at Auckland Pickleball Club. The pair recently won gold together in a Minor League competition in Auckland.
Beyond the World Cup, PCI is also looking to establish pathways for players to compete in the New Zealand Open and other tournaments throughout Oceania.
PCI is part of the Oceania Pickleball Federation, providing links with other organisations across the region.
Future World Cups could also provide opportunities for players outside the Open and Senior categories, with Kids and Masters divisions potentially allowing the Cook Islands to field larger teams in future.
Senior team member Naomi Waka, who was born and raised in Aitutaki, is among the Cook Islanders with significant pickleball experience overseas.
Steele said bringing overseas experience back into the local programme was helping strengthen player development at home.
Cook Islands World Cup squads
Open women: Tayla Beddoes; Christine Dobinson (Vice Captain); Anna Edwards; Hinano Ellingham; Ash Steele.
Open men: Matty Beasley; Brendon Heath (Captain); Thomas Kora; Mauke Mauke; Mike Steele.
Senior women: Nancy Kora (Vice Captain); Shona Lynch; Lara Sadaraka; Naomi Waka.
Senior men: Kora Kora (Captain); Heinz Matysik; Derek Johnson; Kim Bertelsen.
Team management and support: Team Manager Ash Steele; National/Head Coach Gary Cribb; Assistant Coach Lara Sadaraka; Performance Coach Adam Butler; Physiotherapist Lin Watson; Media Officer Kylie Bertelsen…. PACNEWS
PAC – FOOTBALL: OFC PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 27 Aug 2026
Futsal Refereeing development reaches new milestone in Oceania
WELLINGTON, 27 AUGUST 2026 (OFC) — Futsal refereeing in Oceania took another step forward as match officials from across the region and Australia came together in New Zealand for a week of learning, development and innovation.
The FIFA Member Association Futsal Refereeing Course hosted by New Zealand Football, brought together 20 match officials and three Technical Instructors from New Zealand, Fiji, Solomon Islands, New Caledonia and Australia. It was the first time an MA course as such brought together participants from around the region.
The course combined classroom learning with practical sessions to develop their skills and share experiences. A major focus of the week was the introduction of Futsal Video Support (VS) which landed on Oceania shores for the very first time.
FIFA Futsal Technical Instructor Anthony Riley said its introduction was an exciting moment for the region.
“One of the key topics of the course was to educate in the area of Futsal Video Support for the first time, which the participants picked up really well.” he said. “For me this experience was exciting and innovative, especially having, for the first time, an MA course with participants from several different MAs together.”
Local futsal players organised by Mainland Football supported the sessions, allowing officials to test their classroom learnings during matches. The development continued at the New Zealand Tertiary Futsal Championships, where the officials used Futsal Video Support technology for the first time in Oceania.
Riley said the opportunity was particularly valuable during a year without an OFC futsal competition.
“Having the opportunity to bring a group of 20 match officials and three Technical Instructors together in this type of environment is vital to the development of futsal refereeing in our region.
“During a calendar year where there was no Futsal competitions scheduled in OFC, this chance to continue the learning in the classroom, training and match environments is crucial to building the camaraderie between the officials and improving performances,” he said.
He said maintaining those connections would be important beyond the course, with officials continuing to share match incidents online for review and discussion.
The next phase will also focus on creating opportunities for officials to officiate outside their home associations, helping prepare them for future regional competitions. Riley said the initiative would have a lasting impact on futsal refereeing across Oceania.
“Thank you to New Zealand Football and OFC for the support of this initiative, which will go a long way to improving the level of officiating within futsal and improving the game for everyone.”…. PACNEWS
