Tahiti have ended their debut FIFA U-20 World Cup campaign on a disappointing note with a 0-5 loss to Nigeria in Cairo on Thursday evening in a game where two brothers were sent off for the Islanders.

It could have been worse for Tahiti as Nigeria’s Flying Eagles, who were runners-up in the tournament four years ago, had a total of 31 shots during the match but wasteful finishing might hamper the Africans’ hopes of advancing.

Group B winners Spain (nine points) and runners-up Venezuela (six points) have qualified for the final 16 automatically while Nigeria (three points)  now have to wait for other results to go their way in order to go through as one of the best third-place teams. Tahiti meanwhile finish bottom of the group with a winless record.

Nigeria were dominant in the opening stages of their final group match but had to wait 15 minutes for their first goal. Wingers Omatsone Aluko and King Osanga combined well to supply Obiora Nwankwo, who fired past Teave Teamotuaitau.

Tahiti went close four minutes later when Steevy Chong Hue raced past Daniel Adejo to present him with a one-on-one opportunity. However, Uche Okafor raced off his line to stop the ball with his legs.

Nigeria doubled their advantage in the 24th minute when Ibok Edet headed home from King Osanga's corner. Ten minutes later it was 3-0; Kehinde Fatai latching onto another Osanga corner.

Chong Hue had an opportunity from the edge of the box, but fired straight into the arms of the keeper, and Danny Uchechi should have done better with a glorious chance, but the stand-in skipper failed to hit the target.

Two minutes before half-time, Tahiti were reduced to 10 men when Lorenzo Tehau was dismissed for his second yellow of the night. With the final kick of the first half, Nigeria scored their fourth, when Nurudeen Orelesi's speculative cross curled into the net.

The second half was dominated by missed opportunities by the Africans. Uchechi hit the post with a downward header, but their cause was given a further boost in the 74th minute when Tahiti were reduced to nine men; this time it was Alvin Tehau, brother of Lorenzo, who saw red for a second bookable offence.

But still Nigeria could not find a breakthrough. Substitute Raheem Lawal stung the hands of Teamotuaitau from the edge of the box and many more Flying Eagles chances were wasted. Adejo made it five in the final minute, but Samson Siasia and his side face a nervy wait with a goal difference of plus-two to see if they will end up as one of the four best third-placed sides.

For match details and full tournament coverage visit http://www.fifa.com/u20worldcup/index.html 

Tahiti and Nigeria have similar objectives going into their Group B finale at Cairo's International Stadium on Thursday. While the Nigerians need a big win to press their claims for a place in the last 16, Tahiti are looking to collect an unlikely three points and sneak in through the back door themselves.

The game
Tahiti-Nigeria, Cairo, Thursday 1 October, 18:45 (local time)

The stakes
Though logic dictates that both sides are staring elimination in the face, the Nigerians can at least harbour realistic hopes of scoring a big win and sneaking into the Round of 16 as one of the best third-placed teams. To do that, however, they will need to improve the wayward finishing that afflicted them in their opening two games, in which they failed to score. For their part the Tahitians are still in with a mathematical chance, but simply making life difficult for their opponents would represent an achievement in itself.

The stat
24 - The number of years since Nigeria recorded their first win over an Oceania side in the competition. By way of coincidence, current coach Samson Siasia was a member of the side that defeated Australia 3-2 on that occasion at USSR 1985.

The words
"We are well aware of the differences between the two teams on an individual level, but my players have been gaining in confidence despite the results and they know we can still qualify if we beat Nigeria. Of course it's going be very tough to do that, but anything can happen in football." Tahiti coach Lionel Charbonnier

"We have absolutely no margin for error now. We need to start doing all the things we've failed to do so far, and that's winning and scoring goals. And even then that might not be enough. So what we need to do first and foremost is concentrate on getting the win." Nigeria coach Samson Siasia

Story courtesy of FIFA.com

Tahiti have again found themselves on the wrong side of an 8-0 score line, this time going down to Venezuela in Cairo on Monday night in a match that saw two Tahitians sent off before halftime.

After losing to Spain by the same margin on Friday, Tahiti are now out of the running for the FIFA U-20 World Cup Egypt 2009 while Venezuela have booked their place in the last 16 along with Italy who beat Nigeria 2-0 in the other Group B match.

Venezuela proved too strong for the World Cup debutants at Al Salam Stadium putting away three goals in the first half and a further five after the break – making the most of a two-man advantage. Yonathan Del Valle and Jose Rondon led the way with hat-tricks while Jose Manuel Velasquez and Oscar Rojas also got on the score sheet.

La Vinotinto opened the scoring in the fourth minute, when Francisco Flores' cross from the left was headed home by Jose Rondon, who rose above the challenge of Jay Warren to loop the ball over goalkeeper Teheipuari Hauata.

Fifteen minutes later it was 2-0, the unmarked Jose Manuel Velasquez diverting Louis Pena's corner into the net at the far post. Tahiti were dealt a hammer blow in the 26th minute when Stephane Faatiarau received his marching orders for a professional foul on Del Valle and Rondon made no mistake from the resulting spot-kick.
 
Worse was to come for the islanders seven minutes before half-time when Garry Rochette received his second yellow for a foul on Pena.

With the match over as a meaningful contest, the pace slowed considerably in the second half. In the 71st minute the game was reignited when Oscar Rojas curled a left-footed free-kick over the wall and past the outstretched dive of Hauata.

Del Valle added a fifth with 12 minutes to go when he slotted the ball past the keeper after being played in by Rondon. He then latched onto a Rojas left-wing cross to grab his second and Venezuela’s sixth before completing a 13-minute hat trick after collecting Jose Parra's side-footed pass and firing past the keeper.

Although Lorenzo Tehau and Steevy Chong Hue flashed shots just wide of the upright for Tahiti in the first half, the opportunities in the second half were few and far between.

Venezuela will now look to defeat Spain in their final group game to secure their place at the section's summit, while Tahiti will have a chance to salvage some pride against Nigeria on Thursday.

For match details and full tournament coverage visit http://www.fifa.com/u20worldcup/index.html

After a disappointing loss to Spain, Tahiti will be looking to bounce back against Venezuela in their second Group B match of the FIFA U-20 World Cup Egypt 2009 on Monday night. Venezuela will be high on confidence after a historic victory against Nigeria on Friday and another win will take the South Americans a step closer to the round of 16. The Tahitians however, still have ambitions of thir own.

The game:
Tahiti-Venezuela, Cairo, Monday 28 September, 18:45 (local time)

The stakes:
In the build-up to the tournament there seemed little to choose between these two teams, both making their maiden appearance at the FIFA U-20 World Cup. However, after their respective opening games - a surprise 1-0 win for Venezuela over Nigeria, and a painful 8-0 reverse for Tahiti against Spain, the South Americans are now firm favourites. That said, El Vinotinto insist complacency will not be an issue and remain wary of a potential upset.

As well as dealing with the pressure of being favourites, Venezuela will need to be more clinical in front of goal if they are to take the three points and close in on a last-16 berth. Tahiti, on the other hand, will be looking to salvage some pride after their opening round travails and will be hoping to recapture the sort of form that brought them to the finals. 

The stat:
8 - The number of times representatives of CONMEBOL and OFC have met previously in this tournament. Surprisingly, Oceania has the edge with five victories and three defeats, all of which involved Australia.

The words:
"The only positive we can take from the opening game is that Venezuela will have learned nothing about us. We never even got going. But before concerning myself with the opposition I have to try and boost the morale of my boys and go over things again in training." Lionel Charbonnier, Tahiti coach

"Tahiti's previous games were tight and nobody gave us a chance of beating Nigeria, so we can't afford to underestimate them. We have to play with the same intelligence and be even more decisive than in the first match." Cesar Farias, Venezuela coach

Story courtesy of FIFA.com

World Cup debutants Tahiti were no match for Spain in their opening match of the FIFA U-20 World Cup Egypt 2009 at Cairo’s Al Salam Stadium on Friday evening going down 0-8.

With four goals in the first half and four in the second, it was Spain’s biggest win at a FIFA U-20 World Cup.

Luis Milla’s side showed why there are considered one of the tournament favourites with a dominant display in the first half including a share of over 70 percent of possession and three goals inside the first 20 minutes.

The opening goal came in the 11th minute after tidy work by Jordi Alba down the left flank. Alba’s cross found Arsenal midfielder Fran Merida whose shot cannoned off the boot of  Tahiti goalkeeper Teheipuarii Hauata and into the path of Niguez, who gratefully sidefooted home.

The Celta Vigo player made it two six minutes later when Sergio Asenjo's clearance was misjudged by a Tahiti defender, presenting Niquez with a one-on-one opportunity with the goalkeeper – and made no mistake.

The goalscorer turned provider for Spain’s third and fourth goals in the 17th and 32nd minutes of the game, supplying Real Sociedad striker Emilio Nsue.

The pace of the game slowed after the restart, with Spain again enjoying the majority of possession. When Tahiti did receive the ball, they equipped themselves well, attempting to pass the ball fluently and push forward whenever possible.

The Tahitians held strong for 25 minutes but couldn’t stop the brilliance of Merida who grabbed his second – and Spain’s fifth – with a long range effort that flew past the outstretched dive of Hauata.

Kike netted a swift brace in the 79th and 86th minutes while Ander Herrera completed the rout a minute from time.

For match details and full tournament coverage visit http://www.fifa.com/u20worldcup/index.html 




Tahiti starting line-up

From the days of the earliest French settlers through its romanticised depictions in the paintings of Paul Gauguin and Jacques Boullaire, or in the melancholic songs of Jacques Brel, the French Polynesian island of Tahiti has long evoked - in European minds at least - the mythical trappings of a tropical paradise. Until now there has been little room for football in this idyll, but the island's shock qualification for this month's FIFA U-20 World Cup in Egypt may help change perceptions, and demonstrate that even in "Heaven on Earth" there is a place for the beautiful game.

A huge white cross stands sentinel on the hilltop overlooking the FIFA Goal project grounds in the lush Titioro Valley, providing a constant source of inspiration for Tahiti Nui (as the team are known locally) as they prepare to create a miracle of their own at this month's U-20 World Cup.

Faith means a lot to the young Tahitians - before each match they gather together in the dressing room in song, and in prayer. But while faith is important, so too is belief: namely, the belief that they can surprise the world despite being rank outsiders among the 24 teams who will do battle in Egypt. Creating that belief has been the priority of their passionate coach, Lionel Charbonnier, and as the countdown begins to their opening match in Cairo, his infectious enthusiasm seems to be paying off.

Having already made history by becoming the first archipelago nation from Oceania to reach a FIFA under-age world championship, the amateurs from French Polynesia are convinced they can make history again. Tahiti have been drawn against three of the toughest teams in the tournament - European heavyweights Spain, perennial challengers Nigeria, and fellow tournament debutants Venezuela, who booked their place by eliminating six-time U-20 world champions Argentina during the qualifiers.

Charbonnier, 42, knows what it takes to reach the top - he was third-choice goalkeeper when France famously won the FIFA World Cup™ on home soil in 1998. But while the former Auxerre custodian does not expect to become a world champion coach just yet, he can draw some parallels to those unforgettable days with Les Bleus.

The perennial understudy, first to Bernard Lama, and then to Fabien Barthez, Charbonnier admits he felt awkward sharing the glory of the open-top bus ride down the Champs Elysees the day after France won the World Cup.

"I wasn't sure whether I really deserved to be there," he recalls.

"But then being on the bus, and seeing all the people, it made me understand how much joy football can give. From that day, I decided I would always try and use football to bring happiness. So I want my players to be happy, and hopefully we can also make the people of Tahiti happy."

In the happiness stakes, Charbonnier leads by example. In Tahiti, the main island among the five archipelagos composing French Polynesia, the smiling, laidback, approach of the locals has a name. It is called "fiu". Sometimes it is confused with laziness. Even before he touched down in Papeete, Charbonnier - helped by some timely advice from his former Auxerre team-mate and Tahiti's most decorated player, Pascal Vahirua - was determined not to make that mistake. "The Tahitian boys are willing to work hard, but you must know how to treat them," he said.

Thinking Brazilian
"From almost the first week I realised I couldn't think like a Frenchman. I had to think more like a Brazilian. The way they think, they way they look, the weather, the environment, it's almost the same as Brazil. They like to enjoy their work. So you must respect their culture if you want the best from them."

Charbonnier does his best to blend in. Each morning, he rides his black Vespa to the FIFA Goal project training grounds adjacent to the national stadium, Stade Pater, usually arriving in his shorts and T-shirt before sharing a joke and a laugh with his players. There are no pretences about the affable Frenchman. But that does not mean he has lowered his standards. Far from it.

After completing his UEFA Pro Licence, Charbonnier served his coaching apprenticeship with amateur French clubs Sens and Stade Poitiers, taking the latter to three promotions in three seasons. But club politics eventually exhausted him and he was taking a break from football - training horses and painting landscapes and abstracts - when Oceania Football Confederation President and former Tahitian international Reynald Temarii came calling in late 2007.

It was an unusual offer - to travel to the other side of the world to develop the youth teams of a nation which has historically struggled in Oceania, let alone on a bigger stage. But something in the size of the challenge stirred Charbonnier's competitive nature.

"When I arrived, everybody said ‘why did you come?' I said, 'to go to the World Cup'. They said 'you're crazy'. Maybe, maybe I am. But you must be a little bit crazy in your life. Of course it was a big, big, gamble, but I already knew some things about Tahitian players because of Pascal (Vahirua), so I knew there were possibilities."

Those possibilities became a reality when Tahiti edged out New Caledonia to win the Oceania qualifiers late last year. It was history by design, not accident. One of Charbonnier's first demands to Temarii was for his under-20s to be allowed to compete in the local first division in order to gain much-needed experience, fitness, and competition.

Initially, the other clubs resisted, refusing to release their players, but Temarii put his foot down and backed his new coach. When Tahiti celebrated their unprecedented success last December, all opposition to the experiment evaporated. This year Tahiti Nui again competed in the recently-concluded ten-team Championnat, further cementing a level of cohesion and camaraderie that can be hard to foster among national teams whose players are more used to meeting up for short spells months apart.

"We're not a national team, we're a club team, and this is our big advantage," Charbonnier said. "I work with these players every day, and I can see the difference it makes. Every day they give the best of themselves. Every day, they are better players. If they are asked to go through the wall, they will go. They are becoming professional in their minds, and for me it is wonderful to see."

Potential pros
Being professional is not only a state of mind for some of the players, it is also an objective. Charbonnier believes "two or three" of his players are good enough to earn contracts in Europe, most probably France, which has traditionally had first call on Tahitian talent. Vahirua's younger cousin, Marama, currently plays for Ligue 1 club Lorient in Brittany, while Temarii spent two seasons with Nantes during the 1980s and a former Tahitian national team captain, Jean-Loup Rousseau, had spells with Auxerre and Metz in the 1990s.

Perhaps the most likely candidate to be the next Tahitian in the French leagues is 19-year-old striker Alvin Tehau, who scored a goal in last year's decisive win over Fiji, having previously turned down a contract offer during a trial with Ajaccio two years ago. Tehau is ready to try again, and like the rest of his team-mates knows the FIFA U-20 World Cup is a window of opportunity.

"The coach has told us there will be people watching, so maybe they will choose some of us," Tehau said. "This is a big opportunity, not just for me, but for all of us. My dream is to score a goal, maybe against Spain, but my priority is to help the team go through to the second round. We are not scared of the other teams, of the big players. Playing against them can help us improve, and progress. We have been together for more than a year, so we are like brothers, there is a good feeling between us. Of course it is a big step to play in the World Cup, but we believe we can spring a surprise."

So, too, does Charbonnier, who has fine-tuned his squad with a punishing training camp in France, which has included nine matches in the last five weeks. Tahiti will arrive in Egypt fit, focused, and organised. And the minnows are ready as they will ever be.

"Their mentality, it must be very strong," said Charbonnier. "Every day, we are speaking about that. We know it will be very difficult for us. We are in the group of death, so they (opponents) are all happy to play against Tahiti. But we will not lose any matches 10-0, no chance. I am sure about that. The important thing is not to be afraid. If they are afraid when they go on the pitch, they are finished. But if they are not afraid, then we can do something very good, maybe a draw. The best thing for me is they give all their heart, they do their best. We must be warriors, that is what I have told them. After that, we wait and see."

Football's dilemma in Tahiti is to motivate talented players to aim higher and to work towards a professional career. With a thriving tourism industry, and generous subsidies from France for the administration, employment is relatively easy to find in Papeete - which can make the option of staying home and playing football as a hobby seem a less risky alternative.

"Some of these boys have talent, and some of them might get a professional contract, if not in Europe, then hopefully in Australia, where the A-League is now a professional competition," former Tahiti captain Jean-Loup Rousseau told FIFA World. "They have sacrificed a lot in the last 18 months, and it would be a pity to see it go to waste."

All but four of Charbonnier's squad members are students, and those who are not have been given time off by their employers to commit to Charbonnier's rigorous training programme. "It is an easy lifestyle here in Tahiti, so you have to push them sometimes, but I couldn't be happier with the sacrifice they have given me," said Charbonnier.

"We gave the team a few weeks off after the Championnat, and one guy came back ten kilos heavier. He has talent, but of course he must have fitness too. But look at him. See how hard he is working. This is the attitude I like to see."

"What these players need is a goal, and that should be trying to qualify for the World Cup," said Rousseau. "But that all depends on the federation, because you need to keep this group together."
Story courtesy of FIFA.com

A new chapter in Tahiti football history will be written this week as the U-20 national side gets set for its debut appearance at the FIFA U-20 World Cup Egypt 2009.

Never before has Tahiti featured at a FIFA World Cup finals and their opening challenge couldn’t be greater with a first-up match against Spain – one of the favourites of the U-20 tournament.

The match will be played at Al Salam Stadium in Cairo on Friday (25 September) with kick-off at 9:30pm local time.

Coach Lionel Charbionnier, a former goalkeeper who has one France cap to his name and was a non-playing member of Le Bleus squad that won France ’98, says his players face a difficult task ahead.

“I can't say if we're going to win any of our games but we'll be putting our hearts into each match and a lot of discipline too,” says Charbonnier, whose club career included time at Auxerre, Glasgow Rangers and Lausanne.

Charbonnier says he wants his players to approach the Spain match like a friendly international.

“It is a big occasion but I need my players to stay relaxed and play their natural game. They can’t do that if they feel too much pressure.” 

Meanwhile Spanish coach Luis Milla isn’t taking any chances against the underdogs.

“We can't afford to take Tahiti lightly because if you start a game badly, or lose concentration, you can make life difficult for yourself, especially when it’s your opening match.”

Tahiti Nui qualified for the FIFA U-20 World Cup by winning the OFC U-20 Championship on home soil in December last year, beating firm favourites New Zealand along the way.

In doing so they became the first island nation in Oceania to qualify for a FIFA tournament other than the Futsal and Beach Soccer World Cups.

Leading up to the FIFA event, the Tahitians have spent six weeks in France playing warm-up matches in Auxerre and Bordeaux plus a further one week acclimatising in Alexandria where they lost 0-2 to hosts Egypt last weekend. Earlier in the year the young squad played in the national men’s league – Tahitian D1 Championnat.

As outsiders in Egypt, Tahiti will need a strong showing from goalkeeper Teheipuarii Huata who was beaten just once during the qualifying tournament. At the other end of the field the Tehau brothers will look to combine on set pieces with Lorenzo a dead-ball specialist and Alvin having a strong eye for goal.

Likely stars for Spain include Daniel Parejo – currently on loan from Real Madrid at Getafe – and Sergio Asenjo – currently first-choice goalkeeper at Atletico de Madrid. 

Following the Spain clash, Tahiti will play Group B opponents Venezuala (28 September) and Nigeria (1 October). The 24-team tournament kicks off Thursday 24 September with the opening match between hosts Egypt and Trinidad & Tobago in Alexandria and runs until Friday 16 October.

Full tournament coverage will be provided by FIFA.com




FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:

Priscilla Duncan
Oceania Football Confederation
Media & Communications
T: +649 526 5651
F: +649 525 8164
M:+64 (0)21 884 018
E: priscilla@oceaniafootball.com

Joel Tiller
Oceania Football Confederation
Media & Communications
T: +649 526 5654
F: +649 525 8164
M:+64 (0)21 994 520
E: joel@oceaniafootball.com

On the eve of the FIFA U-20 World Cup Egypt 2009, expectations are running high. The fervent support of the Egyptian fans, the presence of a well-balanced field of 24 teams, some spectacular venues, and the promise of new champions - after Argentina's unexpected failure to qualify - are all raising hopes that this will be a vintage edition of FIFA's second-oldest competition.

As always, the tournament will offer many fans a first glimpse of the stars of tomorrow, with no fewer than 485 former FIFA U-20 World Cup participants having already gone on to participate in the FIFA World Cup™, 21 of which went on to win it. Last time around, in Canada 2007, the standout player was Sergio Aguero, who helped steer Argentina to a record sixth title at the event and has since gone on to establish himself firmly in the senior team. Aguero's achievements two years ago in winning the adidas Golden Ball and Golden Shoe, awarded to the competition's best player and top scorer respectively, matched those of Lionel Messi during another Argentine success at Netherlands 2005 and Javier Saviola when the South Americans won on their home soil in 2001.

All of which makes Argentina's failure to qualify for Egypt 2009 a genuine surprise, though there remain a host of genuine top-class title contenders hoping to take full advantage of their absence. Among them are South American champions Brazil, whose players will be looking to match the exploits of former U-20 stars turned full internationals such as Alexandre Pato, Daniel Carvalho, Kaka and Ronaldinho.

Of the European contingent, Germany appear to have the greatest strength in depth, as underlined by their status as reigning European U-17 and U-21 champions. England, for their part, are sure to be buoyed by reaching the final of the UEFA U-19 and U-21 Championships this summer, while the Czech Republic will be determined to prove their runners-up finish at Canada 2007 was no one-off.

When it comes to African sides, Ghana's Black Satellites qualified in style by winning the 2009 CAF African Youth Championship, with front-man Ransford Osei, scorer of six goals at the FIFA U-17 World Cup Korea 2007, in inspired form. Host nation Egypt should also not be overlooked. Now under the guidance of Czech supremo Miroslav Soukup and banking on the talent of star player Mohamed Talaat, the young Pharaohs will feel a repeat of their third-place finish at Argentina 2001 is a realistic aim.

The hosts open their campaign against Group A rivals Trinidad and Tobago on 24 September at Alexandria's Egyptian Army Stadium, the first official match at the 80,000-seater venue, which was constructed as part of Egypt's unsuccessful bid to hold the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

Another visual highlight should be the same city's other arena, the 80-year-old Alexandria Stadium which incorporates part of the old city walls within its structure. Cairo's International Stadium will be where most of the action is, however, as the ground hosts no fewer than 13 matches, including two of Egypt's group-stage games, two quarter-finals, both semis, the third-place play-off and the final.

As well as Cairo and Alexandria, Port Said, Ismailia and Suez are also due to host matches at Egypt 2009, which is the third time Africa has welcomed the event, following on from Tunisia 1977 and Nigeria 1999. What is more, bumper numbers of spectators are expected to reflect the ever-growing importance of this competition, with the 2007 edition attended by a cumulative crowd of nearly 1.2 million, together with a worldwide television audience of over 500 million viewers.

Story courtesy of FIFA.com

Spain and Nigeria are the firm favourites to finish first and second in Group B of the FIFA U-20 World Cup Egypt 2009 (24 September - 16 October) as debutants Venezuela and Tahiti hope to sneak through. 

The two big guns are no strangers to success at FIFA U-20 World Cups, each having secured a top-three finish on three separate occasions. With these impressive records, the pair are favourites to claim the top two spots in Group B, thus guaranteeing a place in the knockout stages. Of the two, however, only the Furia Roja have managed to scoop the ultimate prize.

The group's other contenders, Venezuela and Tahiti, also share a common thread in that both are newcomers to the U-20 showpiece event. Having made history by just qualifying, the duo's nothing-to-lose attitude in Egypt could make them dangerous opponents. Could one of these outsiders manage to win a place in the second round, even via a best third-place finish?

The teams
Nigeria
Venezuela
Spain
Tahiti

The matches (all kick-offs in local time)
Nigeria-Venezuela, Cairo, 25 September, 18:45     
Spain-Tahiti, Cairo, 25 September, 21:30
Nigeria-Spain, Cairo, 28 September, 16:00
Tahiti-Venezuela, Cairo, 28 September, 18:45
Venezuela-Spain, Cairo, 1 October, 18:45
Tahiti-Nigeria, Cairo, 1 October, 18:45

How they qualified
Nigeria: Third in the African Youth Championship Rwanda 2009
Venezuela: Fourth in the South American U-20 Championship Venezuela 2009
Spain: Third in Group A of the UEFA U-19 European Championship 2008
Tahiti: Winner of the OFC U-20 Championship Tahiti 2008

The location
The four teams in Group B will be based in Cairo, Egypt's capital and centre of political, commercial and cultural activities. With ten million people, making up 15 per cent of Egypt's population, it is the largest city in Africa and the Middle East. A large amount of Egypt's trade is either generated in the city or passes through it, and it offers the largest selection of publishers, media outlets, hospitals and universities in the country. Among its many attractions, the world-famous Pyramids make it a Mecca for tourists. Last but not least, Cairo is also the ever-bustling hub of Egyptian football.

All the action will take place at Egypt’s newest sports venue, the 28,500-capacity Al Salam Stadium, inaugurated in June 2009. It is the home ground of Al Intaj Al Habry, a club owned by the Egyptian Ministry of Military Production, which was recently promoted to the First Division. It will be the only venue with an artificial pitch to be used in the tournament.

Story courtesy of FIFA.com

The Federation Tahitienne do Football (FTF) have launched a new logo and slogan ahead of the upcoming season in Tahiti.

The rebranding incorporates a Polynesian tattoo to represent Tahiti’s rich cultural identity, a styling wave as a symbol of the nation’s natural environment plus the red and white colours of the Tahiti flag.

FTF have also chosen the new slogan “feel the future” to show its commitment to innovation and development. 

Chief Executive Officer Pure Nena says the organisation is aiming to become a leader in sport development across the Pacific region.

FTF was founded in 1989 and became affiliated with FIFA in 1990. Under the leadership of President Reynald Temarii, Tahiti football has enjoyed recent successes including qualification by the U-20 men’s national team for the FIFA U-20 World Cup Egypt 2009. The French territory has a strong club structure for men and women which caters for all ages.

French Polynesia has secured a groundbreaking first time opportunity this November with Tahiti set to host a United Nations Educational Scientific Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) Conference.

Representatives of 17 Pacific nations will gather on the island of Maupiti (population 1200) from the 1-8 November 2009.

The Conference will focus on the topic of “World Heritage - South Pacific” for the period 2010-2015.

Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) President, Reynald Temarii, was on hand earlier this month to sign an agreement in Tahiti to help organise the upcoming UNESCO Conference.

This agreement follows on from the 2006 OFC Youth Pacific Festival initiative and OFC will also participate in the Pacific Youth and Sports conference to be held in March 2010 in the city of Manuakau, New Zealand. FIFA currently gives $500 Million Pacific Francs (8,697,466 NZD) each year in aid to help programs that promote sustainable development.

French Senate representative, Richard Tuheiava, mentioned that eighty percent of the protected sites under UNESCO are coastal sites and that the Pacific Ocean is not only a natural resource but a cultural entity.

Tuheiava will present the Marae of Taputapuatea and the Marquises Islands, both sites situated within French Polynesia, as future protected sites under UNESCO. 

The senator also plans to add community and climate change as two more ‘Cs’ to the 2009 four ‘Cs:’ action-plan: credibility, conservation, capacity, and communication.

Courtesy of FTF Media (please see French translation below)



L’OFC soutient l’UNESCO

C’est un évènement historique! a declaré le sénateur Richard Tuheiava, représentant du Sénat français et  organisateur de l’évenèment, puisque c’est la première fois qu’un atlelier du comité du patrimoine mondiale d’UNESCO a lieu en Polynesie francaise.

Les représentants de 17 pays du pacifique se reuniront sur l’ile de Maupiti population 1200, le 1er au 7 novembre 2009. Le rassemblement a pour objet: la mise en oeuvre du nouveau programme “plan d’action” 2010 à 2015.

Le president de L’OFC, Reynald Temarii lors de cette conférence de presse a signé un partenariat pour soutenir cet evenement UNESCO, ce n’est pas la premiere fois que l’OFC participe à ce genre de rassemblements pusique qu’en 2006, l’OFC a soutenu le premier Festival de la Jeunesse du pacifique, et en mars 2010, lOFC soutient la Conférence de la Jeunesse et des sports du Pacifique à Auckland, Nouvele Zélande.   La FIFA met plus de 500 Million de francs pacifique par an à la disposition de ses affiliés pour des plans d’actions qui contribue au développement durable.

Le Senateur Tuheiava a precise que 80% du patrimoine mondiale sont sur des sites cotière, et que l’Océan Pacifique n’est pas seulement une ressource naturelle mais une entité culturel. Le sénateur présentera le Marae de Taputapuatea et les Iles Marquises comme future sites protégé du patrimoine mondiale: L’occasion également d’ajouter communaute et changement climatique au 4 “C” du plan d’action 2009  du programme “Patrimoine mondial- Pacifique” qui sont : Crédibilité, conservation, renforcement des capacités, et communication.

Avec l'aimable autorisation de la FTF Media

Tahitian Football Federation (FTF), lead by Mr Reynald Temarii, is preparing to re-introduce its 2008 grassroots social development ‘Learn and Play’ programme in partnership with the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC).

To implement this programme, Tahiti Football Federation (FTF) and the Tahiti Ministry Of Education have signed a Memorandum Of Understanding (MOU). Seventy three teachers have been trained by FTF to deliver this programme during school hours for young people aged between 9 and 11 years old.

This ‘Learn and Play‘ programme is comprised of two components:
- Sport activity: Futsal (FIFA sanctioned indoor football) tournament
- Educational: a written presentation based a story around a sporting theme

Last year’s debut edition required students to give a presentation on the open-ended theme: ‘What if it was true that doing sports...’



One thousand eight hundred and seventy three students from 30 schools participated in this first edition.

The Primary school of Papetaoi (Moorea – French Polynesia) won the first place prize, and 28 young people have been invited to New Zealand where they have visited the Zoo, Aquarium, and the luge in Silverdale.

Twenty four of these students had never been on a plane before. In 2009, this programme will be renewed and 60 schools have already registered with 4797 students from 204 classrooms competing.

La mise en place d’un tournoi des écoles primaires de Polynésie Française, réservé exclusivement aux classes du cycle 3(CE2, CM1 et CM2), s’inscrit dans une volonté commune du Ministère de l’Education et de la Fédération Tahitienne de Football de s’associer à un projet régional.



A ce titre, les deux partenaires cités ci-dessus, ont signé une convention permettant à un enseignant d’être mis à la disposition de la Fédération Tahitienne de Football afin de piloter ce projet.

Ce projet est composé de deux parties :
- Une partie sportive : tournoi de futsal
- Une partie pédagogique : production sur support numérique autour d’un thème.

La première édition, qui s’est déroulé l’an dernier et qui avait pour thème 'et si c’était vrai qu’en faisant du sport…,' a mobilisé 1 823 élèves répartis dans 73 classes issues de 30 écoles et a vu la victoire de l’école de Papetoai de Moorea. Cette victoire a permis à cette classe de 28 élèves de découvrir la Nouvelle Zélande pendant une semaine: la délégation a  pu visiter l’aquarium d’Auckland, le zoo et a pu s’initier à la luge à Silverdale.

Parmi ces 28 élèves, 24 d’entre eux n’avaient jamais pris l’avion. Quel merveilleux souvenir!
Ces petits enfants du fond de la vallée de Papetoai à Moorea garderont un souvenir inoubliable de leur périple en Nouvelle Zélande.

La deuxième édition, déjà plus populaire puisque 4 797 élèves répartis dans 204 classes issues de 60 écoles se sont inscrits, a pour thème « A la rencontre de nos amis du Pacifique.

204 classes sont sur la ligne de départ mais hélas, une seule sera à l’arrivée et se verra offrir un superbe voyage culturel et linguistique en Nouvelle Zélande.

Bon courage à tous et que le meilleur gagne!

Courtesy of FTF Media

The Tahitian Football Federation (FTF) is proud to announce that it has officially entered the bidding process to host the 2011 FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup to be held 15-25 September 2011 in Tahiti’s capital Papeete.

With the FTF declaration of interest sent on 3 August, the Federation is now preparing to make a report on the progress of its bid as the first step of the FIFA bidding process has been completed.

FTF and Oceania Football Confederation President Reynald Temarii is delighted to be backing such a unique and the original bid.

“Since the very beginning of FIFA back in 1904 there has never been an official World Cup held on a Pacific Island, so I am very excited about this strong Beach Soccer hosting bid.”

“Tahiti Football Federation has substantial experience organising and running quality Beach Soccer Championships and I am confident we have assembled a world class Local Organising Committee (LOC).”

“I believe the welcoming climate of Tahiti and picturesque setting of the Place Toata’a Beach Soccer stadium in Papeete will be the perfect natural environment for such an exciting event,” says Temarii.

FIFA has never organised and held a World Cup on a Pacific Island. Yet the opportunity has been given to every Member Association to bid for such an event.  The FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup is within Tahiti’s reach with FIFA’s stadium capacity requirements suitable to existing infrastructures.

The time has now come for Tahiti to demonstrate its suitability for the hosting challenge. 

Furthermore, the FTF candidature is not only unanimously supported by the Member Associations of the Oceania Football Confederation but it has already received the full support of the Government of French Polynesia, the French state, and the potential host city of Papeete, the capital of Tahiti.

“It is my privilege to fully support this exciting bid” said Mr Oscar Temaru the President of French Polynesia.

According to Temaru, and further to the obvious economic benefits and outstanding exposure worldwide for the welcoming islands of French Polynesia, the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup 2011 will give French Polynesia the opportunity to realise at least two crucial goals;

- Firstly, the event will first help back-up national efforts to raise widespread awareness on environmental issues and sustainable development.
- Secondly, the fundamental values of Beach Soccer such as fair play, effort, discipline and mutual competitiveness will go hand-in-hand with implementing educational workshop and campaigns. 

All the local stakeholders will join together to make this World Cup a fabulous experience for the participants, for the Oceania Football family, and for Tahiti as a whole.

As a result, Tahiti is committed to providing significant logistical, human and financial resources. Its financial assistance alone will amount to 245 Million XPF ($4,224 million NZD).

In compliance with local regulations and laws, the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) has been officially organised and registered.

Pure Nena, as President of the LOC, says his team will put in thorough and determined effort to make their bid as enticing as possible.  

“We will dedicate every effort to make the (potentially) first FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup to be organised in the Pacific Rim the most successful and unforgettable competition Beach Soccer completion to-date says Nena.

Nena will have thorough support from the following LOC team, directed by Noëlline Parker:
Media and Marketing Director: Hinatea Ahnne
Accounting Director: Victor Sienne
Logistics Director: Billy Vaitoare
Competition Director: Fabrice Marchand
Human Resources Director: Arnaud Dumont

Courtesy of TFT Media

With a population of just 178,000, few would expect the Polynesian island of Tahiti to have the resources to qualify for a FIFA competition. Yet that is exactly what the minnows did when winning December 2008's Oceania U-20 Championship, thus booking a place at the FIFA U-20 World Cup Egypt 2009.

At the competition to be held between 24 September and 16 October this year, the Tahiti Nui will become the first island side to represent the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) at the finals of a ‘traditional' FIFA tournament. Under the guidance of coach Lionel Charbonnier, a former keeper at Auxerre, Rangers and Lausanne, the Tahitians have been put through their paces since early August at a training camp in France.

On the agenda at Avallon, where Charbonnier's Auxerre used to prepare for big European encounters, has been a combination of intensive training sessions and warm-up matches against higher-level opposition. "For this training camp we wanted to show the players what it's like at the top," the coach told FIFA.com. "That's why, aside from the training sessions and friendly games, we went to see Auxerre play and we will go and see a Bordeaux match."

"The players have met our expectations by 200 per cent. They're happy we treat them like professionals," said the Tahiti supremo, whose team head to Egypt on 13 September. "Some of them are still quite wide-eyed, but most of them are starting to look more serious and adopting a warrior's stare. That's the spirit that's instilled in me and I'm proud to see how my players' attitude makes them so much stronger, even though they aren't extraordinarily gifted technically."

Enticed to take up the role by the ambitious goals of the Tahiti Football Association (FTF), Charbonnier's position is more than about simple coaching. Indeed, he is often called upon to be something of an older brother and guide to the island's young talents. "I just wanted to give back what amateur football gave me," said the man himself. "I must thank the FA because people thought I was mad to come here. It was a risky move."

Helping the former custodian get the best of the players at his disposal is the experience of winning domestic trophies during both his time in French and Scottish football, as well as being an unused squad member during France's victorious 1998 FIFA World Cup™ campaign on home soil: "That personal experience is what makes the difference between a coach with a traditional background as a sports teacher and a former player. It's easier to get your players to listen when you're a World Cup winner."

Even so, Charbonnier is not optimistic about his side's chances in a Group B containing Nigeria, Spain and Venezuela: "We couldn't have imagined a worse draw. This is the Nigerian generation which were crowned U-17 world champions in 2007, when they beat Spain in the final... It goes without saying those two teams are joint favourites. I even think that the Venezuelans are better than us."

"We're determined to prove that key footballing values can help you move mountains," said the French supremo at the conclusion of the interview, before underlining the difficulty of the task ahead at Egypt 2009. "I'm not sure if we'll win a match or not, but what I can guarantee is that we'll be disciplined in every game and will give it absolutely everything we've got."

Story courtesy of FIFA.com

After a well deserved rest day, Solomon Islands and Vanuatu are ready to square-off in tomorrow’s final of the Tahiti Nui Beach Soccer to see who will qualify for the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup UAE 2009 while Fiji and Tahiti will meet in the 3rd/4th play-off. For fans wanting to know what time the matches kick off in their own country, oceaniafootball.com is pleased to bring you the following information: 

LOCAL KICK-OFF TIMES FOR TAHITI NUI BEACH SOCCER CHAMPIONSHIP

American Samoa
Play-off 3rd/4th: 10:00am Friday 31 July
Final: 12:30pm Friday 31 July

Cook Islands
Play-off 3rd/4th: 11:00am Friday 31 July
Final: 1:30pm Friday 31 July

Fiji
Play-off 3rd/4th: 9:00am Saturday 1 August
Final: 11:30am Saturday 1 August

New Caledonia
Play-off 3rd/4th: 8:00am Saturday 1 August
Final: 10:30am Saturday 1 August

New Zealand
Play-off 3rd/4th: 9:00am Saturday 1 August
Final: 11:30am Saturday 1 August

Papua New Guinea
Play-off 3rd/4th: 7:00am Saturday 1 August
Final: 9:30am Saturday 1 August

Samoa
Play-off 3rd/4th: 10:00am Friday 31 July
Final: 12:30pm Friday 31 July

Solomon Islands
Play-off 3rd/4th: 8:00am Saturday 1 August
Final: 10:30am Saturday 1 August

Tahiti (HOST)
Play-off 3rd/4th: 11:00am Friday 31 July
Final: 1:30pm Friday 31 July

Tonga
Play-off 3rd/4th: 9:00am Saturday 1 August
Final: 11:30pm Saturday 1 August

Vanuatu
Play-off 3rd/4th: 8:00am Saturday 1 August
Final: 10:30am Saturday 1 August

OFC is committed to bringing fans live text updates for its competitions but limited internet access at the venue in Tahiti does not cater for this. Results and full match reports will be available on oceaniafootball.com as soon as possible after the matches tomorrow. OFC thanks fans for their understanding and continued support of Oceania Beach Soccer.

May the best team win!

Vanuatu  have celebrated their National Independence Day by overturning a 1-3 deficit to beat Tahiti 5-3, sealing a place in the OFC Beach Soccer final against the Solomons at Temae Beach this Friday.

Vanuatu captain Seimata Chillia opened scoring, smashing home his team's first goal early in the first period.

Vanuatu went on to dominate possession and most of the attacking opportunities in the first period.

But early in the second period Tahiti awoke, snatching three goals in two minutes to Raimana Li Fung Kuee, Jean Claude Chang Koei Chang and Teva Zaveroni as Vanuatu looked shell-shocked.

However, Vanuatu began to regather themselves as they pegged one goal back through a fine run and powerful shot from Francois Sakama.

Captain Chillia then drew them level with his second before delivering a poin-point corner for Sakama to chest cleverly into the Tahiti goal for a one goal lead at the end of the second period.

And it was Sakama who completed his hat-trick in the third period, killing off Tahiti's hopes during an intese final period of play with a powerful shot from a wide angle on the pitch.

Vanuatu coach Richard Iwai was pleased that his team showed greater application to their game plan than previously during their 5-4 overtime win against Fiji on day two.

"I was pleased with how they were playing in the first period but then they started to lose concentration again and as Tahiti took the lead they weren't playing the formation I told them to."

"At the second period break I told them to stick to the game plan and they did this for the rest of the match, so I was very happy with this. But this was not a perfect game from us today, it was better but I still expect for them to improve against the Solomons in the final." 

Vanuatu 5-3 Tahiti (1-0, 1-3, 3-0)

Tahiti: Raimana LI FUNG KUEE 10:14' (P2); Jean Claude CHANG KOEI CHANG 9:23' (P2); Teva ZAVERONI 8:18' (P2);

Vanuatu: Seimata CHILLIA 7:32' (P1), 10:03' (P3); Francois SAKAMA 2:55' (P2), 8:30', 5:15' (P3);  

Tahiti: 1. Rehia DAVIO; 4. John HOFFMAN; 5. Stephen LEFOC; 6. Kenny NUI; 8. Teva ZAVERONI;

Vanuatu: 1. Chikau MANSALE; 2. Ken MASAUVAKALO; 6. Fredy VAVA; 7. Seimata CHILLIA; 11. Fenedy MASAUVAKALO;   

It will be fun in the sun for spectators at Tahiti Nui Beach Soccer Championship 2009 in Moorea this week but for FIFA Assistant Development Officer Patrick Jacquemet it will be a busy time of in-depth analysis and planning.

Jacquemet, who is charged with developing Beach Soccer in Oceania, will assess the technical abilities of Fiji, Solomon Islands, Tahiti and Vanuatu at Temae Beach from 27 – 31 July as they battle to become Oceania Football Confederation’s (OFC) representative at the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup UAE 2009.

The former professional goalkeeper says this week’s championship will be an opportunity to assess the skill levels of the region’s top teams and highlight areas where they can still improve.

“I will be leading the technical study group and also meeting with coaches and technical directors to plan FIFA/OFC Beach Soccer courses,” said Jacquemet, who played over 300 games for Valence in France before moving to Tahiti to play for Venus in 1992.

Jacquemet says he is looking forward to seeing how the teams have developed and believes the championship will be a competitive one.
After the completion of the event, Jacquemet will then work with the winning team as they get ready to compete at the FIFA tournament in Dubai between 16 – 22 November.

“My objective is to ensure the qualifier has good preparations before the World Cup including international matches so that they are ready to compete with the world’s best,” he said.

“The Solomon Islands have put in credible performances at the last three FIFA tournaments with not a lot of preparation each time. So with a better build up this year I think the Oceania qualifier – no matter which team it is – will have a good chance of reaching the quarter-final stage.”

With continued support over time, Jacquemet believes Oceania has the potential to become a world force in Beach Soccer, pointing to the wide accessibility of beaches and year-round tropical climate as unique factors that could contribute to the steady rise of the game in this part of the world. 

That aside, all eyes will now turn to Tahiti Nui Beach Soccer 2009 which kicks off on Monday.  The competition follows a round robin format based on a league system before a final and 3rd/4th place playoff is held on Friday.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:

Priscilla Duncan
Oceania Football Confederation
Media & Communications
T: +649 526 5651
F: +649 525 8164
M:+64 (0)21 884 018
E: priscilla@oceaniafootball.com

Joel Tiller
Oceania Football Confederation
Media & Communications
T: +649 526 5654
F: +649 525 8164
M:+64 (0)21 994 520
E: joel@oceaniafootball.com

Fiji Beach Soccer coach Imtiaz Khan is racing against time as he tries to build a formidable combination for the Tahiti Nui Beach Soccer 2009 World Cup Qualifiers next week.

The Fiji squad gathered in camp on Tuesday and have just a week together before flying out of the country next Monday for the four-nation qualifiers which features Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Fiji and host nation Tahiti.

“I am not expecting miracles in the qualifiers as this is the first time we will be participating in a regional tournament” said Khan.

“We did not have much time to prepare as players were committed with their districts and we cannot force them to attend training as all the players are bound by contract with their respective districts.”

“I have a good set of players with natural abilities to do well in beach football and I am expecting a good performance from the players.”

“We do not have any expert assistance and are just using videos of matches and the services of referee Farhaz Hussain who is a qualified Beach Soccer referee and will be officiating in the qualifiers.”

“Competition will be tough as all nations will be gunning for a win so they can be represented in the World Cup and we will have a slight disadvantage in being newcomers to the event but this is not a draw back for the team and we are looking forward to our matches with optimism and a positive attitude” he added.

Fiji Futsal reps Kamal Hassan and Sandeep Nair alongside evergreen Lautoka striker Salesh Sami Bula, Valerio Nawatu, Alvin Avinesh, Taniela Waqa and goalkeeper Benaminio Mateinaqara are some of the big names in the Fiji squad.

The departure of Pita Bolaitoga from the squad after he failed to obtain a visa to travel with the team will see Fiji sending only 11 players for the regional meet.

Another worry to the management is the fitness of top goalie Benaminio Mateinaqara who is down with flu and sitting out of training.

The OFC World Cup Qualifiers will be held at Temae Beach from July 27-31.

Fiji squad: Benaminio Mateinaqara, Taniela Waqa, Alvin Avinesh, Shonal Sharma, Alifereti Baleloa, Kamal Hassan, Valerio Nawatu, Shalesh Sami, Arvindra Naidu, Sandeep Nair, Shalen Buisena.

The countdown to Tahiti Nui Beach Soccer 2009 – Oceania’s qualifying event for this year’s FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup – is now on with kick-off just one week away.

Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) will stage the competition at Temae Beach in Moorea, Tahiti, from 27 – 31 July with Fiji, Solomon Islands, Tahiti and Vanuatu all competing for a spot at FIFA’s pinnacle Beach Soccer tournament set to take place in Dubai from 16 – 22 November.

Since the inception of the OFC Beach Soccer Championship in 2006, the Solomon Island Bilikiki have dominated the sport in Oceania and made their mark on the world stage with credible performances at the past three FIFA Beach Soccer World Cups. The team is currently ranked 14th in the world according to FIFA.

Bilikiki coach Henry Koto believes his 12-player squad for 2009 has the confidence to win another Oceania title. 
 
“My team knows what it’s like to enter a championship as defending champions,” said Koto, who has played a key role in the Solomon Islands three World Cup appearances having served as both player and coach.

“We respect every team but our task is to get the job done, defend our title and book our fourth World Cup appearance in Dubai.”

While the Solomon Islands have a proven history behind them, it is difficult to determine just how strong they are compared to Fiji, Tahiti and Vanuatu due to the recent lull in international competition.

A qualifying event did not take place in 2008 because the change in timing of the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup from November to July created significant challenges for OFC. The Solomon Islands were instead nominated to represent Oceania on the back of two strong performances at the FIFA event. As a result, the four participating teams have not been tested against each other for over a year.

Next week’s competition will include a round robin format based on a league system with the four participating teams playing each other once before a final and 3rd/4th place playoff is held on Friday.

The winner will represent OFC at the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup 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 two teams from Asia (yet to be determined) as well as the United Arab Emirates who gain automatic entry as hosts.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:

Priscilla Duncan
Oceania Football Confederation
Media & Communications
T: +649 526 5651
F: +649 525 8164
M:+64 (0)21 884 018
E: priscilla@oceaniafootball.com

Joel Tiller
Oceania Football Confederation
Media & Communications
T: +649 526 5654
F: +649 525 8164
M:+64 (0)21 994 520
E: joel@oceaniafootball.com