BY JOY OFASIA
The Solomon Islands National U-16 women’s football team may have fallen short in their semi-final match, but their journey is far from over—and their spirits are still high.
After a tough 5-0 loss to Samoa in the OFC U-16 Women’s Championship semi-final on Monday, the young squad is now preparing for their final match of the tournament. They’ll return to the field this Thursday at 9:00 a.m. (Solomon Time) at FFS Football Stadium 1 in Apia, where they’ll face New Caledonia in a battle for third place.
Despite the defeat, the team and coaching staff are walking away with their heads held high, proud of what they’ve achieved.
“We are very proud of the girls for giving their best in every match they played to reach the semi-finals,” said assistant coach Pricilla Tariga told SOLOMON WOMEN. “It’s a big achievement for the women’s football development in the Solomon Islands.”
Tariga shared that the team is staying positive and focused on their final challenge. The players are already back in training, determined to end the tournament on a high note.
“We’re now preparing for our third-place match against New Caledonia. The girls know there’s still one more opportunity to show what they can do,” she said.
Tariga also sent a heartfelt message to supporters back home.
“For supporters, continue to support our girls because at the end of the day we are not playing for ourselves but representing the Solomon Islands out here,” she added.
The tournament marks a milestone for the Solomon Islands, highlighting the progress and growing passion for women’s football in the country.
Samoa will now go on to face New Zealand in the grand final. But for the young Solomon Islands team, Thursday’s match is a chance to make history once again.
