SOLOMON Islands will play two international friendly matches against Fiji in the upcoming FIFA international widow, the Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) has confirmed.
The matches are set to take place on 18 March and 21 March at the Lawson Tama Stadium in Honiara, SIFF Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Leonard Paia announced after receiving the FIFA International Match credential.
A four-nation tournament was initially planned for this upcoming international window but had to be cancelled following the withdrawal of Tahiti and New Caledonia.
Head Coach Felipe Vega-Arango will lead the team one last time, with the assistance of Batram Suri, who recently led the national women’s side to a deep run at the OFC Women’s Olympic Qualifier Football tournament last month.
This will be the Spaniard’s final outing with the Solomon Islands national football team, as his contract is set to come to an end in June later this year.
Since taking up the job for his second stint in 2022, Felipe has led the national team as head coach for 19 international matches. He has a record of 12 wins, 3 draws, and 4 losses, consistently leading the team in Oceania.
Felipe’s eye for talent will be part of his legacy having consistently bringing in new and young players into the national fold with his team selection over the years.
The Spaniard handed several young players their national debut during the 2022 Oceania World Cup Qualifiers in Qatar. And he led the team all the way to the final where they were defeated by New Zealand. These players are now regular starters and key for their respective clubs while some have also gone on for short stints with regional clubs.
Felipe had the opportunity to stamp his mark in the history of Solomon Islands football during the 2023 Pacific Games in Honiara. Unfortunately, Solomon Islands lost on penalties to New Caledonia and had to settle for silver.
He also made history with the senior side reclaiming the Melanesian Cup 2023 in New Caledonia.
Felipe leaves the national team with his heads held high having contributed significantly to football in the Solomon Islands.
For his last 2 matches with the national team, the Spaniard has recalled Don Keana and Junior David for the two international friendlies against Fiji.
SOLOMON ISLANDS SQUAD
Goalkeepers
Philip MANGO
Michael LAULAE
Timothy MAEARASIA
Defenders
David SUPA
Junior DAVID
Javin WAE
Leon KOFANA
Junior AENGARI
Alick STANTON
Calvin OHASIO
Allen PETER
Midfielders
Molis GAGAME
Don KEANA
William KOMASI
Tigi MOLEA
Atkin KAUA
Marlon TAHIOA
Joses NAWO
Alvin HOU
Forwards
Raphael LE’AI
Bobby LESLIE
John OROBULU
Gagame FENI
-SIFF Media
