BY SHOREYANN RAGOSO
The head coach of Papua New Guinea’s Under-16 girls football team has opened up about the challenges and hopes as the squad prepares for a crucial semi-final match against New Zealand on Wednesday in Honiara.
Describing the experience of leading teenage athletes, the coach said the biggest lesson has been realising that the coaching staff are now like parents to the young players. “It’s very hard to control this age group,” the coach admitted, adding that other national teams have shared the same struggle.
Beyond football skills, the team is focused on helping the girls grow into better women for the future. “We have to teach them everything,” the coach said, highlighting the dual responsibility of sports and life lessons.
Looking ahead to the semi-final against New Zealand, the coach said the game plan is clear. “I will stick to my formation,” said Susan, noting that New Zealand are a smart team. The strategy is to close down the middle area of the pitch, limiting the space where New Zealand’s midfielders can distribute the ball to their forwards.
When asked to describe the team’s journey in one word, the coach chose gratitude. “I would like to say thank you to everyone who contributed to this team big or small. Their words, their prayers are very important to the team,” they said.
The coach also issued a call to the large PNG community in Honiara to come out and support the semi-final. “All wantok families and friends here in Solo, we need your support. Your support will mean a lot to those back in PNG. It shows that you are carrying the pride and place of families in PNG,” the coach said.
With just one victory separating the team from a place at the World Cup, excitement is building but the coach is keeping the players grounded. After their last match, the girls were celebrating their win, unaware they had advanced.
“We told them we have one more game to go. We need to be humble, stay easy, respect the community, respect whoever is in this area that’s the message to them,” the coach explained.
According to the coach, the reality of being one step closer to the World Cup has not fully sunk in yet. “It’s like they are kids enjoying themselves in this place,” she said.
