Cook Islands national football side departed last night for the OFC U16 Women’s Championship, set to take place in Fiji from September 8-21, 2024.

This tournament is crucial as it serves as the qualifier for the 2025 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup, with the finalists earning the opportunity to represent Oceania on the global stage.

The national team, guided by head coach Tupou Brogan, who also led the previous U16 squad in Tahiti, is determined to put forth their best effort against some of the strongest teams in the region.

The championship is divided into two groups, with the Cook Islands placed in Group A alongside formidable opponents Samoa, Fiji and Tonga. Their first match will be against Samoa on September 8, followed by encounters with Fiji on September 11 and Tonga on September 14.

Coach Brogan has been at the helm of an intensive training regimen over the past five months, focusing on skill development, team cohesion, and tactical strategies. Many players on this squad also participated in the recent OFC U15 Girls Development tournament in Fiji, bringing valuable experience to the team.

“Our preparations have been thorough, and the players have shown remarkable dedication,” Brogan stated. “We know the games ahead will be challenging, but we are ready to represent our country, our families, and our communities with pride and give it our all on the field.”

Cook Islands Football Association (CIFA) president Grover Harmon offered his support to the team, saying “Our U16 Women’s team has worked incredibly hard, and we believe in their ability to perform well at this level. They embody the spirit and resilience of the Cook Islands, and we are behind them every step of the way.”

• CIFA Media

Cook Islands Squad and Management: Players: Vahine Uini, Moerai Ngametua, Athena Napa-Nicholas, Teniva-O-Te-Ra Tauu, Tehanarei Maine Teaka, Mamia Piri-Savage, Peia Tatuava, Cynthia Pitomaki, Hono-Kura Miria, Darlene Kureta, Ngamaanga Taripo, Metuamaru Arere, Kivana Arere, Tilati Ataela, Klaasje Nia, Vaihere Mitchell, Tauariki Nia, Tangi Tangipiri, and Tashi Kopu. Management: Tupou Brogan – Head Coach, Claudean Robati – Assistant Coach, Ani-Tia Piri – Manager, Uamaki Savage – Assistant Coach, Tyson Tekeu – Goalkeeper Coach, and Vilimaina Tuivaga – Physio.