As South Africans woke up this morning, they awoke to news that all 32 teams for the 2010 FIFA World Cup had now qualified – with Uruguay the last to secure their spot in the early hours of the morning.

As nations around the world celebrated their inclusion in Africa’s historic World Cup, the 2010 FIFA World Cup Organising Committee South Africa (OC) respected the significant achievement on the road to 2010 in a symbolic flag raising ceremony on the lawns of SAFA House.

After each Ambassador and country representative had raised their flag under the magnificent shadow of Soccer City stadium, the Chief Executive Officer of the OC, Dr Danny Jordaan explained that the ceremony marked the beginning of a significant phase in the lead up to 2010.

“As we raise the flag we must understand that the story line has changed. The stadiums will be ready, we can see this. The World Cup is about the teams, the coaches and the fans now. This storyline has changed from the concrete of the stadiums to the people and the emotion of the World Cup. Today is about celebrating Africa’s first World Cup.”

Jordaan also held ambassadors accountable for spreading the news of 2010 back in their home countries, saying he expects to see some great figures in terms of visitors from various countries. “You are not only ambassadors for your countries, but now, you are 32 ambassadors of the World Cup. I know the numbers that your teams brought to Germany in 2006 and I will be watching the numbers in 2010,” joked Jordaan.

For the country representatives of the qualified teams, many of whom stayed up late in the night to see their teams qualify, the ceremony was definitely an honour for their country as back home excitement builds for the trip to South Africa next year.

“It was a very interesting night last night but it was a great match and I must pay tribute to the Egyptians who played very well,” said the Algerian Ambassador to South Africa, Mourad Bencheikh whose team qualified after a hard fought match against Egypt yesterday evening.

“Last night was like the second day of independence. To have this World Cup in South Africa and Africa and to now be part of it is a matter of pride to us,” continued Bencheikh.

“Italians are definitely starting to feel the spirit of the World Cup. Just looking at the stadium here (Soccer City), we can see that things are going well. The fire and the passion of this country is incredible,” said the First Secretary in the Italian Embassy, Dario Armini.

Armini is confident that South Africa can expect an influx of fans from Italy during the World Cup but he is also looking to the Italian community in South Africa for support.

“We can count on the Italian community in South Africa, which is around 30,000 strong. We definitely saw their (Italian supporters) passion during the Confederations Cup but I am sure people will come to South Africa as well, it is such a beautiful country.”

For the New Zealand Ambassador to South Africa, Michael Walsh, the mood back home is celebratory.

“There is a euphoric feeling in New Zealand at the moment – it has been 28 years since we last played in a World Cup and I am sure many fans are looking forward to come to South Africa – the World Cup captures the imagination of all people.”

Walsh is certain that the 2010 FIFA World Cup will be a successful tournament. “For 2010 South Africa is obviously pulling out all the stops and you can see from the amazing stadium behind us that it is all on track,” said Walsh, pointing to the near complete Soccer City stadium that will host the opening and closing games of 2010.

Story courtesy FIFA.com

2010 FIFA WORLD CUP SOUTH AFRICA™
Qualifiers

Africa
Algeria (ALG)
Cameroon (CMR)
Côte d'Ivoire (CIV)
Ghana (GHA)
Nigeria (NGA)

Asia
Australia (AUS)
Japan (JPN)
Korea DPR (PRK)
Korea Republic (KOR)

Europe
Denmark (DEN)
England (ENG)
France (FRA)
Germany (GER)
Greece (GRE)
Italy (ITA)
Netherlands (NED)
Portugal (POR)
Serbia (SRB)
Slovakia (SVK)
Slovenia (SVN)
Spain (ESP)
Switzerland (SUI)

North, Central America and Carribean
Honduras (HON)
Mexico (MEX)
USA (USA)

Oceania
New Zealand (NZL)

South America
Argentina
Brazil
Chile
Paraguay
Uruguay

Host Country
South Africa

The long road to determining the 2010 FIFA World Cup™ champions commenced in the Samoan capital of Apia way back on 25 August 2007. On that occasion New Caledonia captain Pierre Wajoka had the honour of scoring the first goal in the global campaign for South Africa 2010 with his ninth-minute penalty enough to edge Tahiti 1-0 in a Francophone derby. It proved to be the commencement of a solid campaign for the New Caledonians who were only admitted to FIFA in 2005.

The first stage of qualifying saw ten teams split into two groups with Group A comprised of Cook Islands, Fiji, New Caledonia, Tahiti and Oceania Football Confederation associate member Tuvalu. Group B featured American Samoa, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga and Vanuatu.

Fiji and New Caledonia finished well clear of the opposition to claim their position in the semi-finals of Round 1, with Tahiti four points away from progressing. The Solomon Islands started their campaign in bright fashion as the Pacific football hotbed maintained momentum from their previous campaign which saw them finish ahead of New Zealand. The Solomon Islanders progressing to the semi-finals in imperious fashion winning all four matches and conceding just one goal.

Joining them were Vanuatu who had also impressed in the qualifying campaign for Germany 2006. Samoa, captained by Chris Cahill, elder brother of Australian superstar Tim, recorded two wins to finish ahead of Tonga and American Samoa with the latter scoring its first-ever FIFA World Cup goal through the boot of Ramin Ott.

The semi-final stage produced a major shock as the Solomon Islands lost firstly to 3-2 to New Caledonia, and then to 2-0 to Vanuatu in the play-off, to miss qualification for Stage 2. New Caledonia defeated Fiji 1-0 in the final, with both teams joined by Vanuatu in progressing to the next stage where New Zealand awaited.

There was little room for error with only six matches each in the four-nation Stage 2. New Zealand set up their campaign nicely with two tough away wins first-up in Fiji and Vanuatu, and the Kiwis never looked back, winning their first five matches to seal the title of Oceania champions. Fielding an under strength line-up the All Whites did lose their last group match against Fiji, who were edged from second spot by New Caledonia, seven points behind the Kiwis.

New Zealand had to wait 11 months to face the fifth-placed Asian nation in an intercontinental play-off for a berth to South Africa 2010. Bahrain defeated regional giants Saudi Arabia to book their meeting with New Zealand. The first leg in Manama was a hard-fought affair in oppressive heat and despite goal opportunities for both teams, the match finished scoreless.

The second leg in front of a record crowd in the New Zealand capital of Wellington saw Rory Fallow score in the final minute of the first half with what proved the only goal of the game. A second-half penalty save from Mark Paston helped ensure the All Whites first FIFA World Cup appearance since 1982.

Story courtesy FIFA.com

The Solomon Islands have been knocked out of the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup in Dubai after going down 1-6 to a classy Portuguese side in their final Group A match on Wednesday.

With everything to play for, both sides were ready to do battle on the beach, each having suffered disappointing group-stage losses the previous day. Within just seconds, magic Madjer had put Portugal ahead. The Solomon Islands nearly got a goal of their own on the ensuing kick-off, but the tone was set and few bright spots followed for the Bilikiki.

Soon thereafter, Belchior crushed a bullet just wide of the post, as goalkeeper and captain Fred Hale seemed continuously involved in the action. Finally, another got through and the shots kept coming, one glancing off the post, another batted away by Hale. The Solomon Islands seemed ready and willing to get back in the game, but it was beginning to look as if it would be a very long afternoon for them.

There was a bright spot for the Solomon Islands when Gibson Hosea slipped a clinical shot from distance just inside the post. But Portugal eventually extended their lead to five. After a rocky start, Portugal have qualified for the quarter-finals of Dubai 2009, while the Bilikiki Boys bid a fond farewell to Jumeirah Beach.

The Solomon Islands can go home with their heads held high after picking up three points in what was an extremely tough group. The team's 7-6 victory over South American powerhouse Uruguay - a team ranked 4th in the world - was a proud day for the Oceania representative.

Henry Koto and his side will now look ahead to the future and work hard to qualify for their fifth consecutive FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup.  

FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup Dubai 2009
Solomon Islands results

Monday 16 November
Uruguay vs. Solomon Islands
6-7 (2-4, 0-3, 4-0)

Tuesday 17 November
Solomon Islands vs. UAE
1-7 (1-2, 0-3, 0-2)

Wednesday 18 November
Portugal vs. Solomon Islands
6-1 (3-0, 0-0, 3-0)

Friday 20 November
Quarter Finals

Saturday 21 November
Semi Finals

Sunday 22 November
3rd/4th play-off
Final

Visit FIFA.com for full previews, reviews and live scoring

Photo courtesy FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images

The Solomon Islands are preparing for their crucial final group match against Portugal at the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup in Dubai on Wednesday and will have a whole nation behind them as they try to qualify for the quarter-final.

The Bilikiki also has the full backing of sporting brand Lotto who recently signed a new sponsorship deal with the Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) to ensure the team is well equipped going into tournaments such as this one.

Lotto has provided thousands of dollars worth of equipment to help with preparations and New Zealand-based General Manager Blair Dawkins says the investment is well worth it.

“Beach soccer is an exciting new sport that has taken off in the Solomon Islands and throughout the Pacific. We want to be a part of that and show our support by sponsoring this successful team that has made it to the FIFA finals for a fourth consecutive time,” said Dawkins, who has been involved in the sporting goods industry for over 20 years.

“We wish the team the very best of luck as they compete against Portugal on Wednesday for a place in the quarter-final."

Group A has proven to be the most evenly balanced group in the tournament, with each team picking up three points and all still in with a chance to progress going into the final day.

A victory for the Solomon Islands will see them make history by becoming the first Oceania nation to go through to the knock-out stages of a FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup. 

But after Tuesday's defeat at the hands of Uruguay, Portugal will also be hungry for a win. The Portuguese have proven too strong for the Solomon Islands on two previous occasions during the 2006 and 2008 group stages.

Solomon Islands match schedule:

Monday 16 November
Uruguay vs. Solomon Islands
6-7 (2-4, 0-3, 4-0)

Tuesday 17 November
Solomon Islands vs. UAE
1-7 (1-2, 0-3, 0-2)

Wednesday 18 November
Portugal vs. Solomon Islands

Friday 20 November
Quarter Finals

Saturday 21 November
Semi Finals

Sunday 22 November
3rd/4th play-off
Final

Visit FIFA.com for full previews, reviews and live scoring

Photo courtesy FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images

 

The Solomon Islands have lost 1-7 to the United Arab Emirates in their second match at the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup in Dubai on Tuesday.

After a dramatic 7-6 win against Urugay in their opening match, the Bilikiki could not follow that up with another win as the hosts proved too strong in front of a home crowd.  

UAE, desperate for three points after a heart-breaking loss to Portugal on day one, struck moments into the match to signal their intentions, as a melodic symphony from synchronised voices and assorted instruments cascaded down from their supporters. Karim Albalooshi was the goal-getter and he struck again soon after Solomon Islands’ goalkeeper Fred Hale had slipped a long shot under UAE goalkeeper Abbas Hussain to draw his side level.

Ibrahim Albalooshi’s direct-kick could not find its way through, but UAE continued to test their luck as the first period drew to a close, sending a number of well-taken shots goalward. And with just twelve seconds gone in the second period, Ibrahim Albalooshi put one in for UAE. Crafty forays forward followed from both sides, before Bakhit Alabadla and then Rami Al Mesaabi added a couple more for UAE.

Qambar Sadeqi drew gasps as his crushing strike found the back of the net midway through the final period, as Solomon Islands were forced to grow comfortable with the idea of sharing top spot in Group B. As UAE tallied another, it hardly seemed necessary, but the flag-waving UAE supporters did not seem to mind.

UAE face Uruguay tomorrow as the group stages draw to a close, while Solomon Islands have the challenging task of contending with a Portugal side eager for another win.

Solomon Islands match schedule:

Monday 16 November
Uruguay vs. Solomon Islands
6-7 (2-4, 0-3, 4-0)

Tuesday 17 November
Solomon Islands vs. UAE
1-7 (1-2, 0-3, 0-2)

Wednesday 18 November
Portugal vs. Solomon Islands

Friday 20 November
Quarter Finals

Saturday 21 November
Semi Finals

Sunday 22 November
3rd/4th play-off
Final

Visit FIFA.com for full previews, reviews and live scoring

Photo courtesy FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images

The Solomon Islands survived a late onslaught to edge Uruguay 7-6 in what was an exhilarating start to their FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup Dubai 2009 campaign. The Oceania representatives held a five-goal cushion with just six minutes remaining, but will be mightily relieved to have put three points on the board following a spirited comeback from their Group A rivals.

The infallible Ricar gave Uruguay an early avantage, but goals from Laua, Hosea, Muri and Wale sent Solomon Islands in 4-2 up at the first break. The South Americans were incapable of nullifying their underdogs’ counter-attacking style, with a quick-fire brace from Laua, which completed his hat-trick, and a strike from Omo making it 7-2 before the end of the second period.

However, midway through the concluding period, Uruguay found their rhythm, and four goals within three minutes – Martin and Ricar both completed doubles, while Pampero and Fabian were also on target – made for a thrilling last few minutes. The Charrúas threw everything forward in search of an equaliser, but the Solomons ultimately escaped with the points.

Uruguay - Solomon Islands
6-7 (2-4, 0-3, 4-0)

Uruguay: 6 (RICAR 2’43” PEN, 31’06”, MARTIN 9’30”, 28’13”, PAMPERO 28’52”, FABIAN 30’39”)
Solomon Islands: 7 (LAUA 5’25”, 14’23”, 14’46”, HOSEA 7’54”, MURI 8’25”, WALE 10’29”, OMO 21’30”)

Uruguay starting line-up: 1. DIEGO, 3. RICAR, 4. COCO, 5. PAMPERO, 6. MARTIN
Substitutes: 2. FABRICIO, 7. PARRILLO, 8. MIGUEL, 9. OLI, 10. FABIAN, 11. MATIUS, 12. LEANDRO

Solomon Islands starting line-up: 12. Fred HALE, 2. Timothy WALE, 7. Michael TAEMAN, 8. OMO, 10. James NAKA

Substitutes: 1. Henry PADAVERANO, 3. Franco NEE, 4. Eddie NGAITIN, 5. Hickly RENCE, 6. Muri MAKAA, 9. Robert LAUA, 11. Gibson HOSEA, 12. Fred HALE

Solomon Islands match schedule:

Monday 16 November
Uruguay vs. Solomon Islands
6-7 (2-4, 0-3, 4-0)

Tuesday 17 November
Solomon Islands vs. UAE

Wednesday 18 November
Portugal vs. Solomon Islands

Friday 20 November
Quarter Finals

Saturday 21 November
Semi Finals

Sunday 22 November
3rd/4th play-off
Final

Visit FIFA.com for full previews, reviews and live scoring

Among the euphoria of New Zealand’s historic and dramatic qualification for the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™ was an unanticipated hero of the hour. While stalwarts such as captain Ryan Nelsen and Ivan Vicelich played an important role in the aggregate win over Bahrain, and goalkeeper Mark Paston has been lauded for his penalty save, the name that will certainly be long remembered is hitherto little-known striker Rory Fallon.

Much like Oceania Player of the Century Wynton Rufer, whose goal ultimately sealed the All Whites berth at Spain 1982, Fallon’s bullet header from a Leo Bertos corner in the final minute of the first half will live long in the annals of New Zealand sport. To add to the synergy surrounding New Zealand’s qualification, and that of the ’82 squad, Rory’s father Kevin was the assistant coach for that famous inaugural and only appearance on the world stage 28 years ago.

After playing for England at youth level, the Kiwi-born striker only debuted for New Zealand in September, but already he has made an impact for the Kiwis forcing teenage striker Chris Wood from the teamsheet. Now settling into regular starting appearances after three seasons with Plymouth Argyle, the future looks bright for the tall and athletic forward.

Living the dream
The slogan in the buld-up to the match was ‘one shot at glory’ and so it proved with Fallon’s goal the difference after a scoreless first-leg in Manama last month. After topping the Oceania qualification zone, New Zealand were faced with the prospect of overcoming Bahrain or missing South Africa with no chance for redemption.

“I saw the ‘82 team (being paraded around the ground) at the start of the warm up and I thought ‘we need to be in this world cup because these people are remembered for this long’,” said Fallon after the match. “(It was a case of) This is our greatest opportunity to do this and we can really do something good for the game and really change things in New Zealand."

It could have all been so different though with Bahrain goalkeeper Sayed Jaffar denying Fallon with a miraculous save from a near-identical position just minutes before the goal. “The first one (opportunity) I was quite upset with but I just prayed I would get another chance,” stated Fallon. “I always fancy myself when the boys put the balls in. I was visualising today and I just knew I could do it."

In the blood
Rory's father Kevin is a famous figure in New Zealand football, not only for his role in the legendary Spain 1982 qualification campaign, but also for a lengthy stint as All Whites boss. Despite a hard-nosed approach to the game, Kevin was reported to be in tears just prior to the match, to which Rory stated “that just goes to show how much it means to him.”

"I've got to thank him for all those trainings, waking up at six o'clock in the morning,” he continued. "And there's still more to go, I still have a lot more to accomplish. I just want to thank him for the time he's put into me." Invariably sought out for his views on the state of the game father Kevin was proud to talk on a subject closer to home than is usual: “Both from a coaching perspective and a parent's aspect, it's very, very emotional when your kid does something great, but this seems to be almost destiny," he said.

All Whites 1982 team skipper Steve Sumner perhaps summed it up the best: "What a proud moment for the Fallons. What a good player Rory is. We should bottle that blood!" But the final word goes to Rory who now will look to create another chapter in the history of New Zealand football. Asked if he would like England in New Zealand’s group in South Africa next year: “That would be my dream… England and Australia in the same group (with us).”

Story courtesy FIFA.com

Photo courtesy Getty Images

OFC President Reynald Temarii has congratulated the New Zealand All Whites after their historic 1-0 victory over Bahrain in Wellington at the weekend to qualify for the 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™.

A Rory Fallon goal in the 45th minute was enough to send the Oceania champions through to football's biggest stage – a feat they have not achieved since 1982.

President Temarii says it is a momentous occasion for New Zealand and for Oceania football.

“Qualifying for the FIFA World Cup™ is a moment to be savoured. It is something that this team has worked incredibly hard to achieve and something that will bring pride to thousands of football fans across the Pacific,” said President Temarii.

“I would like to pass on my congratulations to the All Whites and to New Zealand Football for believing in this dream and making it happen.”

Football fans have had to wait 27 years for New Zealand to qualify for their second FIFA World Cup™ but Temarii believes last night's victory could be the start of greater representation for OFC at FIFA's pinnacle event.

“This success will give confidence to the All Whites while also encouraging other Pacific Island nations that the goal of qualifying for the FIFA World Cup™ is within reach.”
 
Temarii says that the qualification is the outcome of strategic decisions taken in 2005 between FIFA, OFC, Football Federation Australia (FFA) and New Zealand Football (NZF).

“In 2006 Australia officially moved into the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) while at the same time OFC secured the right to play AFC’s fifth-place qualifier on the road to the World Cup – a more appealing proposition than the previous pathway of playing a COMNEBOL representative.
 
“On top of this, FFA, through an agreement with OFC, allowed a team from New Zealand (Wellington Phoenix) to play in the A-League which gave an opportunity for some of New Zealand's best footballers to play professionally.”

Temarii has always considered the departure of Australia into Asia as a wonderful opportunity for the emergence of other Pacific nations to compete on the world stage.
 
“The Solomon Islands at the FIFA Futsal World Cup 2008 and FIFA Beach Soccer World Cups (2006, 2007, 2008, 2009), Tahiti at the FIFA U-20 World Cup 2009 and New Zealand playing in various other FIFA competitions since 2007 is a perfect illustration of that.
 
“I remain convinced that the positive and significant evolutions of NZF on the international football stage is first and foremost the fruit of the exemplary leadership of its new Chairman Frank van Hattum, elected just one year ago, and CEO Michael Glading with whom OFC General Secretary Tai Nicholas is working closely.”

Debutants Switzerland were not at all troubled by the 60,000-plus hostile fans in Abuja’s hulking National Stadium, beating hosts and holders Nigeria 1-0 in the capital to hoist aloft the FIFA U-17 World Cup trophy on Sunday. The win, which came thanks to a steely defensive effort and a second-half header by Haris Seferovic, marks the first time a Swiss national team – any age, any gender – has ever laid claim to a FIFA title.

The hosts came out like a house on fire, putting heavy pressure on the Swiss and creating a handful of scoring chances inside the opening five minutes. First, Abdul Ajagun – hero of the quarter-final with the Koreans in Calabar – hit a wicked shot from 18 yards that Charyl Chappuis had to clear off the line. The Dolphin striker then repeated the dose just seconds later to give the Switzerland defence a real scare. Next, and after just four minutes, Aigbe Oliha’s effort from distance had Swiss goalkeeper Benjamin Siegrist scrambling to turn it away.

A lengthy pause in the action – with injuries to Ajagun and Siegrist after a collision – marked the moment when the Swiss finally carved out their first chance. Predictably, it came on the end of a counter-attack in the 12th minute. Defender Janick Kamber roared into the attack and forced the diminutive Nigerian net-minder Dami Paul into a fine diving save.

Things settled down a bit after a ferocious opening quarter-hour, but the smashing and dynamic Nigerians continued to pile pressure on their stunned hosts. A nice piece of service from the right, after some fine interplay between Edafe Egbedi and Oliha, nearly picked out Sani Emmanuel. But the supersub-turned-starter failed to make proper contact with his header from six yards. With a little over five minutes to go in the opening period, Ramon Azeez had a good chance from a set-piece that he could only manage to blaze over the bar. Creating all the chances, but failing to convert, the Nigerians – who had an excellent chance through Emmanuel late in the dying moment – went into the changing rooms looking a little nervous, while the Swiss were happy just to be all-square.

The Swiss came out of their defensive shell at the start of the second half, and Haris Seferovic had a golden chance to put the Europeans into the lead in the 57th minute. Turning well at the edge of the area, the Grasshopper Zurich ace somehow conspired to hit his left-footed drive wide with the whole goal to shoot at. He made amends only sixth minutes later, however, when he leaped highest in the Nigerian penalty area to head a corner-kick over Paul and into the far corner for his fifth goal of the tournament.

The hosts, stunned into response, poured everything forward in a frenzied attack. In the end, though, the best efforts of Emmanuel, Ajagun and Okoro (who hit against the bar with a quarter-hour to go) failed to find a way through as the disappointed hosts miss out on claiming their fourth overall and second consecutive U-17 title. The Swiss, who win their first-ever international crown, can take tremendous pride in being the first team at these finals to keep the previously free-flowing hosts off the scoreboard.

Meanwhile in the 3rd/4th play-off, Spain beat Colombia 1-0 win in Abuja. A 75th minute goal by Isco was enough to give the Spaniards a podium finish.  

Story courtesy FIFA.com

A sad chapter in Solomon Islands football was written over the weekend when riotous fans burnt down the administration building at Lawson Tama Stadium in Honiara following a disputed referee’s decision in the Solomon Cup match between Honiara Warriors and Malaita Eagles.

The Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) has expressed its disappointment over the unfortunate incident during what is the country's highest level football tournament.

The dispute was triggered when referee John Sao’hu disallowed a Malaita Eagles goal after Honiara Warriors goalkeeper Leon Lekezoto was fouled. A free-kick was awarded to Honiara Warriors and this resulted in fans throwing rocks.

The disturbance quietened down and the game was allowed to continue with six minutes added time. But on the stroke of full-time, Honiara Warriors striker Ezra Sale put his side 1–0 ahead which sparked widespread unrest.

Spectators rushed towards the match officials who had to be escorted out of the stadium. A huge section of the crowd then turned on the administration building with rocks. They eventually broke down the gate to the administration area and smashed open the doors to the ticketing office where they took off with the gate-takings.

The loss was made even greater when the administration building was set alight and it did not take long for the building to be fully ablaze. Several vehicles parked in the administration area were also damaged by the thrown rocks.

Only a minimal number of police were present at Lawson Tama during the incident and they could not do anything to stop the crowd. The fire truck that was sent in was obstructed by rioters throwing rocks.

By 9:00pm the building had burned completely. The crowd had, by then, moved on to Chinatown where they were eventually dispersed by police and military reinforcements from the Regional Assistance Mission to the Solomon Islands contingent and the local riot squad.

The administration building houses the SIFF President’s office as well as the Honiara Football Association and Futsal and Beach Soccer Development Office.

Several historic photographs were also lost in the fire. The building was also used as a storeroom for SIFF equipment and everything inside including uniforms used by the national team were lost to the fire. An era of trophies and memorabilia were also claimed by the fire.

The container next to the administration building also caught alight and all the equipment inside was lost.

Story courtesy SIFF Media

As they gear up for their fourth consecutive FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup this week in Dubai, the word from the Solomon Islands’ camp is that the current squad has just the right blend of youth and experience.

The Oceania champions have failed to survive the group stages in all three of their previous attempts, but this year Solomon Islands coach Henry Koto has set his players the target of reaching the quarter-finals; this despite having been grouped alongside powerhouses Portugal and Uruguay, as well as hosts United Arab Emirates.

Speaking exclusively to FIFA.com, Koto said, “This isn’t the first time we’ve played in the World Cup – in fact it’ll be our fourth appearance. Consequently, our players have gained a great deal of experience from previous editions, which will help us achieve our goal of reaching the knockout phase.”

Asked for his thoughts on his Group A rivals, the coach said his charges would not be intimidated and were ready to do battle with anyone. “All three sides are good, but then so are we. We haven’t just come here to make up the numbers – we intend to compete. I believe the morale and togetherness of the squad will help us provide stiff competition.”

Solomon Islands’ opening fixture will be against Uruguay, a team they also ran up against at Rio de Janeiro 2006, when the South Americans won 10 – 5.

Looking ahead to the game Koto said, “The match against Uruguay will be very tough, especially as it’s the first game of the tournament. We played them in 2006, but we’re a different side now, and the players are keen to get off to a winning start.”

The 33-year-old believes his squad have a balance of youth and experience this time around, saying, “We’ve a lot of talent in the team, including some new faces and some old hands. James Naka is the elder statesman, having been with us since 2006, while Robert Laua, who’s very skillful, as well as very young, is our newest recruit.”

Koto added that the team’s successive appearances at the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup have helped them develop not only their skills, but also the understanding between players. “The team has improved a lot since our maiden appearance in 2006. Back then we just weren’t good enough. Now, however, the experience we’ve accrued and our intensive training regime should make a difference.”

The coach concluded the interview with his tip for top honours in Dubai: Portugal are a very strong team and the Brazilians are excellent. Without doubt, these are the two best sides in the tournament.”

FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup Dubai 2009

Solomon Islands schedule:

Monday 16 November
Uruguay vs. Solomon Islands

Tuesday 17 November
Solomon Islands vs. UAE

Wednesday 18 November
Portugal vs. Solomon Islands

Friday 20 November
Quarter Finals

Saturday 21 November
Semi Finals

Sunday 22 November
3rd/4th play-off
Final

Story courtesy FIFA.com

History is set to be created regardless of the victor in Saturday’s 2010 FIFA World Cup South Africa™ Asia/Oceania play-off between New Zealand and Bahrain in Wellington. The New Zealand capital will play host to a match that will provide a new chapter in the annals of either New Zealand or Bahrain football.

For New Zealand, a win at the sold-out Westpac Stadium will mark the All Whites’s return to the global showpiece for the first time in 28 years since their FIFA World Cup debut at Spain 1982. Following a scoreless draw in Manama last month, visitors Bahrain know that a score draw will be enough to become the world’s smallest nation to progress to world football’s greatest stage.

After a resolute defensive showing in the first-leg, All Whites coach Ricki Herbert has vowed to show his team’s offensive strengths in what has been dubbed by local media as the nation’s “most important match in 27 years”. The visitors, despite failing to convert their dominance into a first-leg home win, have significant experience in their line-up and are led by wily Czech mentor Milan Macala.

The stakes
Bahrain enter the contest seeking their first-ever appearance at the FIFA World Cup but it is their second consecutive appearance in the intercontinental play-off stage. The Bahrainis narrowly losing to Trinidad and Tobago four years ago, when Dennis Lawrence famously headed the only goal in the second leg sealing the CONCACAF side’s qualification at the Gulf nation's expense. With another qualifying decider awaiting them, the Bahrainis know all too well that old lessons must be learned if they are to make amends this time around.

Though the home side have only limited recent experience against Asian opposition, the greatest moment in All Whites history is heavily intertwined with the continent. In the 15-match qualification campaign for Spain 1982, New Zealand stunned Saudi Arabia 5-0 before outstripping China 2-1 to book qualification. A regular fixture in the line-up was none other than current All Whites coach Ricki Herbert, whose experience in the emotion-charged atmosphere of a FIFA World Cup qualifier will be invaluable.

The preparation
Herbert has been blessed by the availability of all his players allowing the entire 18-man squad from the first leg in Manama to be retained. An added bonus is the recent scoring form of the overseas-based contingent, with even captain Ryan Nelsen grabbing a rare goal in Blackburn Rover's Premier League win last weekend. Also last weekend, striker Rory Fallon scored the winner against Doncaster which fired his Plymouth Argyle out of the drop zone in the English Championship. At the same time, Shane Smeltz continued his remarkable form in the A-League with the winner for Gold Coast United against leaders Sydney FC.

In contrast, Bahrain will sorely miss striker Ala’a Hubail, who tore cruciate ligaments in his right knee just days after the first-leg. Another forward, Hussail Ali is also in recovery mode from a knee injury, limiting Macala’s striking options. Despite the difficulties, the side skippered by Mohamed Salmeen proved they still have firepower after routing 2006 FIFA World Cup finalists Togo 5-1 in a recent friendly.

Players to watch
With a FIFA World Cup berth on the line, the Kiwis will be buoyed by a record 35,000 home crowd. Spearheading the attacking line will be the 28-year-old Smeltz, who won A-League's Golden Boot last season with 12 goals. He has maintained his prolific form this season, scoring eleven goals in only nine matches for Gold Coast United.

Ismail Abdullatif, who scored a brace against Togo, is expected to fill the breach left by Hubail’s absence. The form of Abdullatif could prove key with the 23-year-old scorer of the dramatic injury-time equaliser against Saudi Arabia in the Asian play-off to set up the meeting with against Kiwis.

The stat
6 – The number of countries Milan Macala has coached with the 66-year-old yet to take a nation to the FIFA World Cup.

The words
"There will be plenty of opportunities in the game and I expect it to be an open game. One goal may be enough for us but we never make it easy for ourselves," Milan Macala, Bahrain coach.

"We need to go into the game very much on the front foot and very positive. There needs to be that passion and adrenaline pumping through the veins or we haven't got the right people in the squad," Ricki Herbert, New Zealand coach.

Story courtesy FIFA.com

Photo courtesy FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images

WELLINGTON – The All Whites ramped up their build up for Saturday’s FIFA World Cup playoff against Bahrain in an off-limits training session that included practicing penalties.

After three very public trainings at Endeavour Park in Whitby, New Zealand secreted themselves away to the slightly more secluded Newtown Park to run through set pieces.

At the same time as Bahrain’s private jet full of players, management and fans were touching down from the warmer climes of Sydney, the All Whites took turns at replicating the lonely journey from the halfway line to the penalty spot, just in case the tie reaches it’s most nerve-jangling climax.

Even the goalkeepers stepped up to take a spotkick to cover all possibilities.

Saturday’s second leg would need to finish goalless after 90 minutes, like the first leg in Manama, and remain so through 30 minutes of extra time for the match to go to a shootout, as a score draw would see

Bahrain progress on the away goals rule.

New Zealand must win the tie to return to the World Cup after a 27 year absence and the simpler equation has led to a positive mindset from Herbert and his players who are determined to get on the front foot early and take the match to the favoured Bahrainis.

Meanwhile, Simon Elliott upped his participation in training, including taking full part in some team drills as he races to recover from a hip injury.

New Zealand complete their on-field preparation with Friday night's official run at Westpac Stadium.

2010 FIFA World Cup
Asia/Oceania Playoff
Second Leg
New Zealand v Bahrain
8pm, November 14
Westpac Stadium, Wellington

New Zealand (from): 1-Mark PASTON (GK), 2-Aaron SCOTT, 3-Tony LOCHHEAD, 4-Ben SIGMUND, 5-Ivan VICELICH, 6-Ryan NELSEN (Captain), 7-Simon ELLIOTT, 8-Tim BROWN, 9-Shane SMELTZ, 10-Chris KILLEN, 11-Leo BERTOS, 12-Michael MCGLINCHEY, 13-Chris WOOD, 14-Rory FALLON, 15-David MULLIGAN, 16-Andrew BOYENS, 17-Andy BARRON, 18-James BANNATYNE (GK).
Coach: Ricki Herbert

Bahrain (from): 1-Sayed Mohamed Jaffar (GK), 2-Mohamed Husain Mohamed, 3-Ahmed Hassan Taleb, 4-Abdulla Baba Fatadi, 5-Mohamed Ahmed Hubail, 6-Hussain Salman Maki, 8-Jaycee John, 7-Sayed Mahmood Jala9-Hussain Ali Ahmed, , 10-Mohamed Ahmed Salmeen (captain), 11-Ismaeel Abdullatif Ismaeel, 12-Faouzi Mubarak Aaish, 13-Mahmood Abdulrahman Mohamed, 14-Salman Isa Ali, 15-Abdulla Ismaeel Omar, 16-Sayed Mohamed Adnan, 17-Husain Ali Hassan, 18-Abbas Ahmed Ali (GK), 22-Abdulla Mohamed Al-Kaabi (GK).
Coach: Milan Máčala

Story and photo couresy NZF Media

For the latest NZ Football news visit www.nzfootball.co.nz

The Solomon Islands beach soccer team has lost 1-3 to Switzerland in the first of two friendly matches in the Dubai this week ahead of the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup.

Both warm up matches provide the Bilikiki a valuable opportunity to aclimatise to the hot conditions ahead of their opening World Cup match against Uruguay on Monday 16 November.

The FIFA tournament, which goes through until Sunday 22 November, includes 16 of the world's best beach soccer teams. It will be the fourth consecutive year that the Solomon Islands have represented Oceania at the event.

Bilikiki management were happy with the first up performance against a talented Switzerland side. The team will now look to try different strategies in the second friendly against the Europeans.

The matches follow on from a recent visit by Switzerland assistant coach Davor Ivcevic to the Solomon Islands to assist with preparations for the tournament. 

Ivcevic's tour was organised by Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) and the Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) who have worked together to ensure the best possible build up for the Bilikiki.

As OFC’s representative on the world stage, the Solomon Islands will play alongside Ivory Coast and Nigeria (African qualifiers), Italy, Portugal, Russia, Spain and Switzerland (European qualifiers), Costa Rica and El Salvador (CONCACAF qualifiers), Argentina, Brazil and Uruguay (CONMEBOL qualifiers) plus Japan and Bahrain (Asian qualifiers) as well as the United Arab Emirates who gain automatic entry as hosts.

They will face tough competition in the first round of the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup after being drawn in Group A alongside Portugal, Uruguay and hosts UAE.

FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup Dubai 2009

Solomon Islands schedule:

Monday 16 November
Uruguay vs. Solomon Islands

Tuesday 17 November
Solomon Islands vs. UAE

Wednesday 18 November
Portugal vs. Solomon Islands

Friday 20 November
Quarter Finals

Saturday 21 November
Semi Finals

Sunday 22 November
3rd/4th play-off
Final

Cook Islands Football powerhouses Tupapa and Nikao Sokattak are locked together on equal points at the top of the Rarotonga Football Senior Men’s division after the conclusion of round four last weekend.

Matavera took the biggest upset of the round as they gained their first win five rounds into the season, 2-1 over Takuvaine at home. There were no further surprises, however, as highflying Nikao took a resounding 7–0 home win home against Titikaveka.

Rounding out the Men’s play on the weekend, Tupapa gained three valuable points by defeating Avatiu 1- 0 at Victoria Park on Saturday, leaving Avatiu languishing near the bottom of the points-table just ahead of Titikaveka.

In the Women’s Open, Titikaveka continued to top the points table after another win over Nikao, while Avatiu team upset Tupapa 2-1.

The Nikao U-16 Boys comfortably won their game against Titikaveka 2–0 while the Nikao U-14 Girls lost by the same score.

Matavera’s U-13 and U-16 Boys' teams lost their respective matches against Takuvaine 0 – 2 and 0–1.

In the Tupapa versus Avatiu game fixtures, Avatiu won the U-13 Boys match 2 – 0, but lost the U-14 Girl’s fixture 1 – 2. Tupapa also beat Avatiu 0 -3 in the U-16 Boy’s grade.

Round 5 gets underway in Rarotonga this Thursday.

Courtesy of CIFA Media