OFC World Cup qualifying tourney - Qatar in March
For our group the permutations are:
- NZ tops group if we avoid defeat vs New Caledonia
- Fiji have to beat PNG to go through due to weaker GD (-3 to 0)
- PNG qualify if they avoid defeat
- New Caledonia knocked out even if they win vs NZ
- PNG/Fiji can both top group if they win, NZ lose and a GD swing is large enough (NZ on +5, PNG 0, Fiji -3)
Winner of our group plays the later game (6:30, March 28th NZ time) vs runner up Group A. Runner up plays 3am same day.
Not sure what the plan is for the other group, could be that the unplayed games are considered 3-0 wins, though that would be unfair on the Solomons who actually played. Would mean a draw would see Tahiti top group on GD (+6 vs +5). Other way would be a straight knockout playoff, though that could require extra time that our group wouldn’t have played.
- NZ tops group if we avoid defeat vs New Caledonia
- Fiji have to beat PNG to go through due to weaker GD (-3 to 0)
- PNG qualify if they avoid defeat
- New Caledonia knocked out even if they win vs NZ
- PNG/Fiji can both top group if they win, NZ lose and a GD swing is large enough (NZ on +5, PNG 0, Fiji -3)
Winner of our group plays the later game (6:30, March 28th NZ time) vs runner up Group A. Runner up plays 3am same day.
Not sure what the plan is for the other group, could be that the unplayed games are considered 3-0 wins, though that would be unfair on the Solomons who actually played. Would mean a draw would see Tahiti top group on GD (+6 vs +5). Other way would be a straight knockout playoff, though that could require extra time that our group wouldn’t have played.
We'll top our group comfortably, no doubt about that. Hope Danny doesn't play too weak an XI, important to build on an awesome performance against Fiji and not regress from it.
Fiji beating PNG doesn't look likely based on the games so far, so in most likelihood the semifinals would shape up as NZ v Tahiti and Solomons v PNG. Tahiti look the weakest of that bunch so would be the best opponent to have. Then we just have to get the job done against PNG/Solomons one more time and we'll be matching up to CONCACAF in June.
Fiji beating PNG doesn't look likely based on the games so far, so in most likelihood the semifinals would shape up as NZ v Tahiti and Solomons v PNG. Tahiti look the weakest of that bunch so would be the best opponent to have. Then we just have to get the job done against PNG/Solomons one more time and we'll be matching up to CONCACAF in June.
Would be nice to see us play 4 at the back instead of 5, dont really see the point of playing with wingers and wing backs. Be more direct by playing two strikers and put pressure on the opposition centre backs - whipping average crosses into the box seems to be a real lottery and we arent capitalizing enough.
Would be nice to see us play 4 at the back instead of 5, dont really see the point of playing with wingers and wing backs. Be more direct by playing two strikers and put pressure on the opposition centre backs - whipping average crosses into the box seems to be a real lottery and we arent capitalizing enough.
I'd expect a back 5 against the concacaf team in the play offs, this tourney is really just preparation for that, Hay will be anting to get the lads familiar with the style/shape of play that he thinks will best suit the play off opposition.
Would be nice to see us play 4 at the back instead of 5, dont really see the point of playing with wingers and wing backs. Be more direct by playing two strikers and put pressure on the opposition centre backs - whipping average crosses into the box seems to be a real lottery and we arent capitalizing enough.
I'd expect a back 5 against the concacaf team in the play offs, this tourney is really just preparation for that, Hay will be anting to get the lads familiar with the style/shape of play that he thinks will best suit the play off opposition.
Plus without Bell, Thomas and Singh midfield is weakened at the moment
Future CONCACAF opponent will no doubt use these games for analysis viewing. So maybe not a bad thing 2 of these guys will be absent all tourney. May just be a nice surprise if both are there come June, and Hay feels confident enough to start game (if AWs are there) with a back 4
We'll top our group comfortably, no doubt about that. Hope Danny doesn't play too weak an XI, important to build on an awesome performance against Fiji and not regress from it.
Fiji beating PNG doesn't look likely based on the games so far, so in most likelihood the semifinals would shape up as NZ v Tahiti and Solomons v PNG. Tahiti look the weakest of that bunch so would be the best opponent to have. Then we just have to get the job done against PNG/Solomons one more time and we'll be matching up to CONCACAF in June.
Fiji beating PNG doesn't look likely based on the games so far, so in most likelihood the semifinals would shape up as NZ v Tahiti and Solomons v PNG. Tahiti look the weakest of that bunch so would be the best opponent to have. Then we just have to get the job done against PNG/Solomons one more time and we'll be matching up to CONCACAF in June.
With the class of Bell & Cacace still to be introduced, plus a younger & faster Tuiloma for Smith - wouldn't surprise if the AWs don't concede a goal all tourney.
They should do it pretty easy from here, as their combinations start to gel better, with more time together. All the Island teams have had more time together lately than AWs, so suspect our boys have the biggest upside over the next week.
Would be nice to see us play 4 at the back instead of 5, dont really see the point of playing with wingers and wing backs. Be more direct by playing two strikers and put pressure on the opposition centre backs - whipping average crosses into the box seems to be a real lottery and we arent capitalizing enough.
Our first goal against Fiji came from a corner where Wood was unmarked. All our other early attempts were two kiwi players at the touch line trying to find Wood in the box, where he had two or three defenders marking him.
Apart from one effort from Stamenic at no point did we try to move the defense around or play through the middle.
I thought Waine and Kosta were operating too wide or lacking variety in the attack. Perhaps got used to Uffie’s wide 10s and perhaps another day Wood takes those early chances and it looks like a genius strategy. But what paid off, imo, is when Wood got a little time/space created for him, rather than when he had a 2 v 1 central battle.
Any update on the situation with the Cook Islands? Have they had to withdraw now because of COVID, similar to Vanuatu?
Interestingly enough, Tahiti is yet to play a game - first game cancelled v Vanuatu, second game cancelled v Cook Islands. That means that if Tahiti loses to the Solomon Islands by 3 goals, the Cook Islands would advance to the Semi-Finals, despite having 0 points and playing only 1 game. Truly an absurd situation, I'm hoping we're in the all clear COVID wise from a NZ perspective.. Would be interesting playing the Cook Islands in the semi-final knowing a large portion of their team tested positive.. what contingencies would we take to ensure we could field a team for the final if the worst case scenario happens.
A lot of hypotheticals, but it's a shambles of a tournament at this stage.
Interestingly enough, Tahiti is yet to play a game - first game cancelled v Vanuatu, second game cancelled v Cook Islands. That means that if Tahiti loses to the Solomon Islands by 3 goals, the Cook Islands would advance to the Semi-Finals, despite having 0 points and playing only 1 game. Truly an absurd situation, I'm hoping we're in the all clear COVID wise from a NZ perspective.. Would be interesting playing the Cook Islands in the semi-final knowing a large portion of their team tested positive.. what contingencies would we take to ensure we could field a team for the final if the worst case scenario happens.
A lot of hypotheticals, but it's a shambles of a tournament at this stage.
Any update on the situation with the Cook Islands? Have they had to withdraw now because of COVID, similar to Vanuatu?
Interestingly enough, Tahiti is yet to play a game - first game cancelled v Vanuatu, second game cancelled v Cook Islands. That means that if Tahiti loses to the Solomon Islands by 3 goals, the Cook Islands would advance to the Semi-Finals, despite having 0 points and playing only 1 game. Truly an absurd situation, I'm hoping we're in the all clear COVID wise from a NZ perspective.. Would be interesting playing the Cook Islands in the semi-final knowing a large portion of their team tested positive.. what contingencies would we take to ensure we could field a team for the final if the worst case scenario happens.
A lot of hypotheticals, but it's a shambles of a tournament at this stage.
Interestingly enough, Tahiti is yet to play a game - first game cancelled v Vanuatu, second game cancelled v Cook Islands. That means that if Tahiti loses to the Solomon Islands by 3 goals, the Cook Islands would advance to the Semi-Finals, despite having 0 points and playing only 1 game. Truly an absurd situation, I'm hoping we're in the all clear COVID wise from a NZ perspective.. Would be interesting playing the Cook Islands in the semi-final knowing a large portion of their team tested positive.. what contingencies would we take to ensure we could field a team for the final if the worst case scenario happens.
A lot of hypotheticals, but it's a shambles of a tournament at this stage.
Tahitian media reports that Tahiti and Solomons are through and the Cooks are in the same boat as Vanuatu, as in they’re out.
OFC will hope Friday’s match has a winner, because if it doesn’t they’ll have to decide to either play extra time or award Tahiti top on GD on account on having two teams default as opposed to just one. I can’t find anywhere what criteria OFC will apply in case of a draw in that match.
I suppose OFC could just run it as is, given that first or second place is somewhat insignificant, because there is no consolation for second or third, so losing a semi is no different to losing the final.
Any update on the situation with the Cook Islands? Have they had to withdraw now because of COVID, similar to Vanuatu?
Interestingly enough, Tahiti is yet to play a game - first game cancelled v Vanuatu, second game cancelled v Cook Islands. That means that if Tahiti loses to the Solomon Islands by 3 goals, the Cook Islands would advance to the Semi-Finals, despite having 0 points and playing only 1 game. Truly an absurd situation, I'm hoping we're in the all clear COVID wise from a NZ perspective.. Would be interesting playing the Cook Islands in the semi-final knowing a large portion of their team tested positive.. what contingencies would we take to ensure we could field a team for the final if the worst case scenario happens.
A lot of hypotheticals, but it's a shambles of a tournament at this stage.
Interestingly enough, Tahiti is yet to play a game - first game cancelled v Vanuatu, second game cancelled v Cook Islands. That means that if Tahiti loses to the Solomon Islands by 3 goals, the Cook Islands would advance to the Semi-Finals, despite having 0 points and playing only 1 game. Truly an absurd situation, I'm hoping we're in the all clear COVID wise from a NZ perspective.. Would be interesting playing the Cook Islands in the semi-final knowing a large portion of their team tested positive.. what contingencies would we take to ensure we could field a team for the final if the worst case scenario happens.
A lot of hypotheticals, but it's a shambles of a tournament at this stage.
Tahitian media reports that Tahiti and Solomons are through and the Cooks are in the same boat as Vanuatu, as in they’re out.
OFC will hope Friday’s match has a winner, because if it doesn’t they’ll have to decide to either play extra time or award Tahiti top on GD on account on having two teams default as opposed to just one. I can’t find anywhere what criteria OFC will apply in case of a draw in that match.
I suppose OFC could just run it as is, given that first or second place is somewhat insignificant, because there is no consolation for second or third, so losing a semi is no different to losing the final.
Both Solomons or Tahiti will be dead keen to avoid AWs in their semi though. AWs favourites to top their pool barring a shock loss to NC, plus GD turnaround in favour of PNG or Fiji
And Hay mentioned if there is Covid in the team he will be on the phone to Talay, Minnesota, USL crew, Singh, Torslanda or whoever to immediately fly reinforcements into Qatar
Following the decisions taken by the football associations of the Cook Islands and Vanuatu to withdraw from the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ Oceania Qualifiers due to positive cases of COVID-19 that affected their respective national teams, the Bureau for the FIFA World Cup™ Qualifiers has taken the following decisions in order to determine the winner and runner-up of Group A in a fair and simple manner:
1. All matches played or scheduled to be played as part of Group A involving the Cook Islands or Vanuatu shall be deemed to have not taken place for the purposes of determining the group standings.
2. The match between the Solomon Islands and Tahiti scheduled to take place on March 24, 2022 will act as a single play-off match to determine the winner and runner-up of Group A. In accordance with article 20 paragraph 11 of the Regulations for the FIFA World Cup 2022™ Preliminary Competition, if the match is level at the end of normal playing time, extra time shall be played. If the score is still level at the end of extra time, kicks from the penalty mark shall be taken to determine the winner.
3. The Solomon Islands will go into their match against Tahiti with a clean disciplinary record (as they did not receive any cautions in their match against the Cook Islands, this shall not change the status quo in substance).
4. For the avoidance of doubt, the match between the Cook Islands and the Solomon Islands, which took place on 17 March 2022 with a 2-0 result in favour of the Solomon Islands, will count with respect to the FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking, although it will not count with respect to the preliminary competition Group A standings.
https://www.oceaniafootball.com/update-on-fifa-world-cup-qatar-2022-oceania-qualifiers/
https://www.oceaniafootball.com/update-on-fifa-world-cup-qatar-2022-oceania-qualifiers/
Following the decisions taken by the football associations of the Cook Islands and Vanuatu to withdraw from the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ Oceania Qualifiers due to positive cases of COVID-19 that affected their respective national teams, the Bureau for the FIFA World Cup™ Qualifiers has taken the following decisions in order to determine the winner and runner-up of Group A in a fair and simple manner:
1. All matches played or scheduled to be played as part of Group A involving the Cook Islands or Vanuatu shall be deemed to have not taken place for the purposes of determining the group standings.
2. The match between the Solomon Islands and Tahiti scheduled to take place on March 24, 2022 will act as a single play-off match to determine the winner and runner-up of Group A. In accordance with article 20 paragraph 11 of the Regulations for the FIFA World Cup 2022™ Preliminary Competition, if the match is level at the end of normal playing time, extra time shall be played. If the score is still level at the end of extra time, kicks from the penalty mark shall be taken to determine the winner.
3. The Solomon Islands will go into their match against Tahiti with a clean disciplinary record (as they did not receive any cautions in their match against the Cook Islands, this shall not change the status quo in substance).
4. For the avoidance of doubt, the match between the Cook Islands and the Solomon Islands, which took place on 17 March 2022 with a 2-0 result in favour of the Solomon Islands, will count with respect to the FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking, although it will not count with respect to the preliminary competition Group A standings.
https://www.oceaniafootball.com/update-on-fifa-world-cup-qatar-2022-oceania-qualifiers/
https://www.oceaniafootball.com/update-on-fifa-world-cup-qatar-2022-oceania-qualifiers/
Seems the best outcome considering the circumstances. I imagine both teams will be keen to avoid extra time before the semis however.
I feel like it's unfair for Solomon Islands and Tahiti to have to play extra time if it's a draw. As someone else said, to win the tourn they have to win the semi and final too, so group position doesn't really matter so much. In terms of WCQ there is no difference beating NZ in the semi or final.
It would be better for those teams if they agreed to a straight shoot out if it's a draw.. playing an extra time when you will need to play 3 matches in 9 days to win the tourn (keep in mind the other teams don't have as much bench depth/subs to rotate game time) would hurt.
It would be better for those teams if they agreed to a straight shoot out if it's a draw.. playing an extra time when you will need to play 3 matches in 9 days to win the tourn (keep in mind the other teams don't have as much bench depth/subs to rotate game time) would hurt.
I feel like it's unfair for Solomon Islands and Tahiti to have to play extra time if it's a draw. As someone else said, to win the tourn they have to win the semi and final too, so group position doesn't really matter so much. In terms of WCQ there is no difference beating NZ in the semi or final.
It would be better for those teams if they agreed to a straight shoot out if it's a draw.. playing an extra time when you will need to play 3 matches in 9 days to win the tourn (keep in mind the other teams don't have as much bench depth/subs to rotate game time) would hurt.
It would be better for those teams if they agreed to a straight shoot out if it's a draw.. playing an extra time when you will need to play 3 matches in 9 days to win the tourn (keep in mind the other teams don't have as much bench depth/subs to rotate game time) would hurt.
Group position is definitely important for these teams - for the simple reason that it's no guarantee that NZ will win the semi-final (although it's highly likely). Anything can happen in 90 minutes, and shock results happen in knockout football. To avoid playing NZ in the semi-final, and instead play PNG/Fiji is not a trivial matter.
That's a fair point, and I agree they would prefer to avoid NZ in the semi to give another team a chance at upsetting them first. You'd think both teams would prefer straight to pens though if it's a draw rather than exhausting themselves in extra time.
I guess the other point is they've both hardly played any minutes, with Tahiti none at all so should be more fresh to get through potentially 120 mins compared to the teams in our Group.
Shame it's on so early would be good to cast an eye over the teams to see what we might expect come SF time.
Shame it's on so early would be good to cast an eye over the teams to see what we might expect come SF time.
18 year old Raphael Lea'i (ex Nix Academy) with a hat trick as Solomons beat Tahiti 3-1.
So highly likely AWs will play Tahiti in their semi.
https://us.soccerway.com/matches/2022/03/24/oceania/wc-qualifying-oceania/solomon-islands/tahiti/3710344/
So highly likely AWs will play Tahiti in their semi.
https://us.soccerway.com/matches/2022/03/24/oceania/wc-qualifying-oceania/solomon-islands/tahiti/3710344/
18 year old Raphael Lea'i (ex Nix Academy) with a hat trick as Solomons beat Tahiti 3-1.
So highly likely AWs will play Tahiti in their semi.
https://us.soccerway.com/matches/2022/03/24/oceania/wc-qualifying-oceania/solomon-islands/tahiti/3710344/
So highly likely AWs will play Tahiti in their semi.
https://us.soccerway.com/matches/2022/03/24/oceania/wc-qualifying-oceania/solomon-islands/tahiti/3710344/
That was an entertaining match (more so than the All Whites ones so far!). Lots of good counter attacking from the Solomons, they have a bit of flair.
That guy didn't look 18 to me!!!
Nice game that.Two different styles.
1-1 at HT Fiji verus PNG. Fiji now down to 10 men.
PNG 2-1 winners over 10 man Fiji, so will play Solomons in the other semi.
Semmy with the winning goal (63 mins).
https://us.soccerway.com/matches/2022/03/24/oceania/wc-qualifying-oceania/fiji/papua-new-guinea/3710356/
Semmy with the winning goal (63 mins).
https://us.soccerway.com/matches/2022/03/24/oceania/wc-qualifying-oceania/fiji/papua-new-guinea/3710356/
4/4 on my sports betting for the night. Japan (yes not related to this ofc thread), Solomons, PNG, NZ. I usually get 0/4 so it was a good night of football for me!
Even though Fiji was down to 10 (with a really stupid challenge especially considering they were up at the time) I feel PNG have been good value for their semi spot so far, keep in mind they only lost by the one goal to NZ. Solomons were super entertaining (and great on the counter attack) in their match today, so will be interesting how they compare against PNG in their semi.
I've really enjoyed the games I've watched not involving NZ. Each to their own, but I find 2 OFC opponents (even if not NZ) facing off in a WCQ more entertianing than an EPL match with better players.
Even though Fiji was down to 10 (with a really stupid challenge especially considering they were up at the time) I feel PNG have been good value for their semi spot so far, keep in mind they only lost by the one goal to NZ. Solomons were super entertaining (and great on the counter attack) in their match today, so will be interesting how they compare against PNG in their semi.
I've really enjoyed the games I've watched not involving NZ. Each to their own, but I find 2 OFC opponents (even if not NZ) facing off in a WCQ more entertianing than an EPL match with better players.
Couple of things that worry me now that we've reached the knockout stage of the OFC qualifying tournament. Quite clear that your toughest opponent isn't one of the other islands but covid- as shown by the withdrawals of Vanuatu and Cook Islands. So hope there aren't any positive cases in the NZ squad that jeopardise our chances now.
Secondly, I'm not sure on the rules for this competition, but do players miss the final for a second yellow card in the competition? We've had to play 3 group stage matches whereas Tahiti and Solomon Islands just one (FIFA confirmed Solomon players who were booked against Cook Islands don't count). NZ have clocked up 5 yellow cards in the group stage (Lewis, Rogerson, Pijnaker, Just and McCowatt), although did just see that there were 6 cards shown in yesterday's game between Tahiti and Solomon Islands.
Secondly, I'm not sure on the rules for this competition, but do players miss the final for a second yellow card in the competition? We've had to play 3 group stage matches whereas Tahiti and Solomon Islands just one (FIFA confirmed Solomon players who were booked against Cook Islands don't count). NZ have clocked up 5 yellow cards in the group stage (Lewis, Rogerson, Pijnaker, Just and McCowatt), although did just see that there were 6 cards shown in yesterday's game between Tahiti and Solomon Islands.
Couple of things that worry me now that we've reached the knockout stage of the OFC qualifying tournament. Quite clear that your toughest opponent isn't one of the other islands but covid- as shown by the withdrawals of Vanuatu and Cook Islands. So hope there aren't any positive cases in the NZ squad that jeopardise our chances now.
Secondly, I'm not sure on the rules for this competition, but do players miss the final for a second yellow card in the competition? We've had to play 3 group stage matches whereas Tahiti and Solomon Islands just one (FIFA confirmed Solomon players who were booked against Cook Islands don't count). NZ have clocked up 5 yellow cards in the group stage (Lewis, Rogerson, Pijnaker, Just and McCowatt), although did just see that there were 6 cards shown in yesterday's game between Tahiti and Solomon Islands.
Secondly, I'm not sure on the rules for this competition, but do players miss the final for a second yellow card in the competition? We've had to play 3 group stage matches whereas Tahiti and Solomon Islands just one (FIFA confirmed Solomon players who were booked against Cook Islands don't count). NZ have clocked up 5 yellow cards in the group stage (Lewis, Rogerson, Pijnaker, Just and McCowatt), although did just see that there were 6 cards shown in yesterday's game between Tahiti and Solomon Islands.
Couple of things that worry me now that we've reached the knockout stage of the OFC qualifying tournament. Quite clear that your toughest opponent isn't one of the other islands but covid- as shown by the withdrawals of Vanuatu and Cook Islands. So hope there aren't any positive cases in the NZ squad that jeopardise our chances now.
Secondly, I'm not sure on the rules for this competition, but do players miss the final for a second yellow card in the competition? We've had to play 3 group stage matches whereas Tahiti and Solomon Islands just one (FIFA confirmed Solomon players who were booked against Cook Islands don't count). NZ have clocked up 5 yellow cards in the group stage (Lewis, Rogerson, Pijnaker, Just and McCowatt), although did just see that there were 6 cards shown in yesterday's game between Tahiti and Solomon Islands.
Secondly, I'm not sure on the rules for this competition, but do players miss the final for a second yellow card in the competition? We've had to play 3 group stage matches whereas Tahiti and Solomon Islands just one (FIFA confirmed Solomon players who were booked against Cook Islands don't count). NZ have clocked up 5 yellow cards in the group stage (Lewis, Rogerson, Pijnaker, Just and McCowatt), although did just see that there were 6 cards shown in yesterday's game between Tahiti and Solomon Islands.
Do cards/suspensions carry over to the playoff match against Concacaf?
Couple of things that worry me now that we've reached the knockout stage of the OFC qualifying tournament. Quite clear that your toughest opponent isn't one of the other islands but covid- as shown by the withdrawals of Vanuatu and Cook Islands. So hope there aren't any positive cases in the NZ squad that jeopardise our chances now.
Secondly, I'm not sure on the rules for this competition, but do players miss the final for a second yellow card in the competition? We've had to play 3 group stage matches whereas Tahiti and Solomon Islands just one (FIFA confirmed Solomon players who were booked against Cook Islands don't count). NZ have clocked up 5 yellow cards in the group stage (Lewis, Rogerson, Pijnaker, Just and McCowatt), although did just see that there were 6 cards shown in yesterday's game between Tahiti and Solomon Islands.
Secondly, I'm not sure on the rules for this competition, but do players miss the final for a second yellow card in the competition? We've had to play 3 group stage matches whereas Tahiti and Solomon Islands just one (FIFA confirmed Solomon players who were booked against Cook Islands don't count). NZ have clocked up 5 yellow cards in the group stage (Lewis, Rogerson, Pijnaker, Just and McCowatt), although did just see that there were 6 cards shown in yesterday's game between Tahiti and Solomon Islands.
Do cards/suspensions carry over to the playoff match against Concacaf?
Just watched the Solomon Islands v Tahiti highlights. The Solomon Islands could be the team to beat - they look to have a lot of pace and decent attacking ability, 3 very nice goals. Interestingly, I saw they played the Brisbane Roar in an unofficial friendly at the start of the month and won 1-0 - read into that what you will.
Just watched the Solomon Islands v Tahiti highlights. The Solomon Islands could be the team to beat - they look to have a lot of pace and decent attacking ability, 3 very nice goals. Interestingly, I saw they played the Brisbane Roar in an unofficial friendly at the start of the month and won 1-0 - read into that what you will.
My assessment would be the Solomon Islands might be most likely to score a goal against the All Whites, but Papua New Guinnea would be the most likely to deny the All Whites any goals. Their semifinal should be a cracker, considering a 3am NZ time start for it.
Hope Solomons win, as we haven’t played them yet. PNG would be ho hum we have played you before
Be also interesting to see how young Lea’i goes up against top players like Bell, Reid, Tuiloma etc looking to shut him down.
Someone mentioned him as a short term injury replacement for the Nix. Must be some overseas clubs surely looking at him
Be also interesting to see how young Lea’i goes up against top players like Bell, Reid, Tuiloma etc looking to shut him down.
Someone mentioned him as a short term injury replacement for the Nix. Must be some overseas clubs surely looking at him
What are every thoughts that this side potentially is our best chance since South Africa to make it to the World Cup and cause an upset? I think it is.
A one off game in a neutral venue
Not a South American team!!
Then if we make it,
1: A premiership striker at his peak and the best we have ever had.
2: A former premiership defender who while unattached I think still has a good few games ahead of him.
Both unlikely to be around next time.
3: Players who never quite kicked on and perhaps reached the levels expected in Rojas and Kosta, but nevertheless skilful players who could turn a game in a world cup.
4: Young players who we think could be the next big thing (like Rojas was meant to be) in Singh, Garbett, Bell and Stamenevic. They may end up like Rojas but may not.
5: If Thomas can get over his injury a classy midfield.
If we can get everyone on the park, think this is indeed our chance
A one off game in a neutral venue
Not a South American team!!
Then if we make it,
1: A premiership striker at his peak and the best we have ever had.
2: A former premiership defender who while unattached I think still has a good few games ahead of him.
Both unlikely to be around next time.
3: Players who never quite kicked on and perhaps reached the levels expected in Rojas and Kosta, but nevertheless skilful players who could turn a game in a world cup.
4: Young players who we think could be the next big thing (like Rojas was meant to be) in Singh, Garbett, Bell and Stamenevic. They may end up like Rojas but may not.
5: If Thomas can get over his injury a classy midfield.
If we can get everyone on the park, think this is indeed our chance
What are every thoughts that this side potentially is our best chance since South Africa to make it to the World Cup and cause an upset? I think it is.
A one off game in a neutral venue
Not a South American team!!
Then if we make it,
1: A premiership striker at his peak and the best we have ever had.
2: A former premiership defender who while unattached I think still has a good few games ahead of him.
Both unlikely to be around next time.
3: Players who never quite kicked on and perhaps reached the levels expected in Rojas and Kosta, but nevertheless skilful players who could turn a game in a world cup.
4: Young players who we think could be the next big thing (like Rojas was meant to be) in Singh, Garbett, Bell and Stamenevic. They may end up like Rojas but may not.
5: If Thomas can get over his injury a classy midfield.
If we can get everyone on the park, think this is indeed our chance
A one off game in a neutral venue
Not a South American team!!
Then if we make it,
1: A premiership striker at his peak and the best we have ever had.
2: A former premiership defender who while unattached I think still has a good few games ahead of him.
Both unlikely to be around next time.
3: Players who never quite kicked on and perhaps reached the levels expected in Rojas and Kosta, but nevertheless skilful players who could turn a game in a world cup.
4: Young players who we think could be the next big thing (like Rojas was meant to be) in Singh, Garbett, Bell and Stamenevic. They may end up like Rojas but may not.
5: If Thomas can get over his injury a classy midfield.
If we can get everyone on the park, think this is indeed our chance
When you don't even mention Cacace who is playing Serie A it's good signs!
1-1 in the first semi between Solomon's and PNG at H/T.
Such helter skelter football. Back and forth, back and forth. Lea'i had an excellent run in behind just before the half that won the Solomons a penalty, but it was struck against the post by Micah Lea'alafa. Solomon's look the more dangerous team going forward, and they're pressing like madmen, but look vulnerable if their play gets broken up and they get hit on the counter.
For the most part PNG looking to try and control the game a bit more, but have been pretty wayward with their passing so far so haven't constructed too much going forward. They did however work a goal from some clever free kick play and a nice cutback to Alwin Komolong to open the scoring.
Subsequently this was cancelled out by an Alwin Hou strike.
The Alwin's with the goal's in the first half. Will be interesting to see who will come out on top at the end of this one.
Such helter skelter football. Back and forth, back and forth. Lea'i had an excellent run in behind just before the half that won the Solomons a penalty, but it was struck against the post by Micah Lea'alafa. Solomon's look the more dangerous team going forward, and they're pressing like madmen, but look vulnerable if their play gets broken up and they get hit on the counter.
For the most part PNG looking to try and control the game a bit more, but have been pretty wayward with their passing so far so haven't constructed too much going forward. They did however work a goal from some clever free kick play and a nice cutback to Alwin Komolong to open the scoring.
Subsequently this was cancelled out by an Alwin Hou strike.
The Alwin's with the goal's in the first half. Will be interesting to see who will come out on top at the end of this one.
As expected an entertaining match. Like their match against Tahiti, the Solomons pace and counter attack is pretty dangerous.
Solomon's snag it 3-2.
Entertaining match it was indeed. Got to give it to both sides for the style of play, full of running and full of energy, with neither set of players taking a backwards step. Lots of passion in the sides too as you could tell by the wild cheers and celebrations everytime someone scored.
Lea'i will be a handful for whoever he lines up against, but I was impressed by Alwin Hou too. Two well taken goals by him, his first was an excellent finish.
Entertaining match it was indeed. Got to give it to both sides for the style of play, full of running and full of energy, with neither set of players taking a backwards step. Lots of passion in the sides too as you could tell by the wild cheers and celebrations everytime someone scored.
Lea'i will be a handful for whoever he lines up against, but I was impressed by Alwin Hou too. Two well taken goals by him, his first was an excellent finish.
What are every thoughts that this side potentially is our best chance since South Africa to make it to the World Cup and cause an upset? I think it is.
A one off game in a neutral venue
Not a South American team!!
Then if we make it,
1: A premiership striker at his peak and the best we have ever had.
2: A former premiership defender who while unattached I think still has a good few games ahead of him.
Both unlikely to be around next time.
3: Players who never quite kicked on and perhaps reached the levels expected in Rojas and Kosta, but nevertheless skilful players who could turn a game in a world cup.
4: Young players who we think could be the next big thing (like Rojas was meant to be) in Singh, Garbett, Bell and Stamenevic. They may end up like Rojas but may not.
5: If Thomas can get over his injury a classy midfield.
If we can get everyone on the park, think this is indeed our chance
A one off game in a neutral venue
Not a South American team!!
Then if we make it,
1: A premiership striker at his peak and the best we have ever had.
2: A former premiership defender who while unattached I think still has a good few games ahead of him.
Both unlikely to be around next time.
3: Players who never quite kicked on and perhaps reached the levels expected in Rojas and Kosta, but nevertheless skilful players who could turn a game in a world cup.
4: Young players who we think could be the next big thing (like Rojas was meant to be) in Singh, Garbett, Bell and Stamenevic. They may end up like Rojas but may not.
5: If Thomas can get over his injury a classy midfield.
If we can get everyone on the park, think this is indeed our chance
What are every thoughts that this side potentially is our best chance since South Africa to make it to the World Cup and cause an upset? I think it is.
A one off game in a neutral venue
Not a South American team!!
Then if we make it,
1: A premiership striker at his peak and the best we have ever had.
2: A former premiership defender who while unattached I think still has a good few games ahead of him.
Both unlikely to be around next time.
3: Players who never quite kicked on and perhaps reached the levels expected in Rojas and Kosta, but nevertheless skilful players who could turn a game in a world cup.
4: Young players who we think could be the next big thing (like Rojas was meant to be) in Singh, Garbett, Bell and Stamenevic. They may end up like Rojas but may not.
5: If Thomas can get over his injury a classy midfield.
If we can get everyone on the park, think this is indeed our chance
A one off game in a neutral venue
Not a South American team!!
Then if we make it,
1: A premiership striker at his peak and the best we have ever had.
2: A former premiership defender who while unattached I think still has a good few games ahead of him.
Both unlikely to be around next time.
3: Players who never quite kicked on and perhaps reached the levels expected in Rojas and Kosta, but nevertheless skilful players who could turn a game in a world cup.
4: Young players who we think could be the next big thing (like Rojas was meant to be) in Singh, Garbett, Bell and Stamenevic. They may end up like Rojas but may not.
5: If Thomas can get over his injury a classy midfield.
If we can get everyone on the park, think this is indeed our chance
They may be around in 2026, but I have a feeling this may be the last World Cup for a while that actually feels like one, as FIFA move to a format involving 174 teams qualifying automatically...
Found some match highlights from Solomons 3-1 win over Tahiti a few days ago.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=shZCdXU7i_k
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=97nYpS1i_20
Solomons have a very slick, pacy counter attack. Similar to how Lea'i & Co cut up New Zealand at U17 OFC Tourney (in pool game?) a few years back.
It will be much harder for them against Reid, Pijnaker & Tuiloma. But AWs will need to be very well organised. If we can score an early goal, that means they can't just sit & wait.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=shZCdXU7i_k
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=97nYpS1i_20
Solomons have a very slick, pacy counter attack. Similar to how Lea'i & Co cut up New Zealand at U17 OFC Tourney (in pool game?) a few years back.
It will be much harder for them against Reid, Pijnaker & Tuiloma. But AWs will need to be very well organised. If we can score an early goal, that means they can't just sit & wait.