The Cook Islands Football Association (CIFA) is gearing up to host one of the most exciting football events of the year – the 2025 OFC Men’s Champions League Qualifying Stage.

From February 8 to 14, 2025, Rarotonga will be the epicenter of Pacific football as three top teams from Samoa, American Samoa and the Cook Islands battle it out for a coveted spot in the Group Stage of the prestigious OFC Men’s Champions League.

The OFC Champions League is the premier competition for club football in the Pacific, and this year, the stakes are higher than ever. Rarotonga will play host to teams from American Samoa, Samoa, and the Cook Islands itself, as Royal Puma SC (American Samoa), Vaipuna SC (Samoa), and Tupapa Maraerenga FC (Cook Islands) compete for supremacy in a round-robin format.

The competition promises to be a thrilling spectacle, as each team fights not only for regional glory but for the opportunity to represent the Pacific in the upcoming OFC Champions League Group Stage, to be held in the Solomon Islands from March 30 to April 12, 2025. With only one spot up for grabs, every match will be crucial.

The action kicks off on Saturday, February 8, with Royal Puma SC taking on Vaipuna SC at 3pm at the CIFA Complex in Matavera. Both teams will be eager to start strong, knowing that a good result is essential for their chances of progressing.

On Tuesday, February 11, the competition heats up as Royal Puma SC faces Tupapa Maraerenga FC, the local pride of the Cook Islands. Tupapa Maraerenga FC will be aiming to give their home fans something to cheer about as they take on the American Samoan side, a team that has consistently impressed in the region. The action concludes on Friday, February 14, with a thrilling encounter between Vaipuna SC and Tupapa Maraerenga FC. This match could be a decisive one, determining who will claim the top spot and secure a place in the OFC Champions League Group Stage.

CIFA president, Grover Harmon shared his excitement about the upcoming tournament.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for us to showcase the talent and passion for football in the Cook Islands. We are proud to host teams from American Samoa and Samoa, and we look forward to a week of competitive and exciting matches,” Harmon said.

“We encourage all football fans to come out and show their support for Tupapa Maraerenga FC and enjoy the tense action!”

All matches will be held at the CIFA Complex in Matavera, Rarotonga, providing a perfect setting for football fans to enjoy the high-paced, action-packed matches. Fans are encouraged to come down and support their local team, Tupapa Maraerenga FC, and our Pacific friends from Samoa and American Samoa as they battle it out on the pitch.

With an entry fee of just $3 per match, it’s an affordable and exciting way to experience top-level football on the island. Whether you're a local or a visitor, this is an event you won’t want to miss.

The OFC Men’s Champions League Qualifier is not just a sporting event – it is a celebration of Pacific football. It provides a rare opportunity for teams from different parts of the Pacific to come together and showcase their talent.

For the Cook Islands, hosting this prestigious event highlights the growth and development of football in the region.

• CIFA Media

Fixtures

• Saturday, February 8 – 3:00pm: Royal Puma SC vs. Vaipuna SC
• Tuesday, February 11 – 3:00pm: Royal Puma SC vs. Tupapa Maraerenga FC
• Friday, February 14 – 3:00pm: Vaipuna SC vs. Tupapa Maraerenga FC