PAPUA New Guinea are bracing for a tough encounter today against the Cook Islands in their second OFC Under-16 Women’s Championship Qualifying match at the PNG Football Stadium in Port Moresby.
Kick-off is set for 3pm, with free entry for the public.
The Cook Islands opened their campaign with a dominant win over American Samoa on April 18, showcasing clinical attacking play and a disciplined defence that restricted goal opportunities.
After observing PNG’s opening match, coach Tuka Tisam has prepared his side to reinforce their backline against PNG’s attacking quartet of captain Anjelika Raminai, Oscalina Gunemba, Chriszanne Sifas, and Joylin Lisah.
For PNG, smooth coordination between attackers and midfielders Glenda Danny and Emeliah Khanna will be crucial to breaking through the Cook Islands’ defence. At the same time, PNG’s backline must remain alert as Cook Islands’ forwards test goalkeeper Helina George.
Tisam praised his team’s execution in their first match, noting their focus on finishing and adherence to the game plan.
“We’ve started strong and now we hope to get through this game against PNG. We know it will be a tough one but we are clocked-in and ready,” he said.
Meanwhile, PNG coach Susan Steven has underlined recovery and polish-up sessions over the past two days.
She expects her starting line-up to follow the game plan closely, acknowledging the quality of the Cook Islands side and the challenge ahead.
The winners secure a place at the 2026 OFC Under-16 Women’s Championship in Honiara, Solomon Islands, in September.
