THE Solomon Islands Men’s U19 Head Coach, Batram Suri, has unveiled a 23-man squad set to compete in the OFC Men’s U19 Championship in Samoa, running from July 5-18.
At a press conference on Tuesday, the former national player revealed that the squad comprises primarily of S-League U19 players from the previous season, along with three standout provincial-based talents.
“I’m satisfied with the players I have now. We have been working very hard to build chemistry, and I have seen significant progress as we look ahead,” said Suri.
Joining Suri on the coaching bench is Franco Ne’e, a two-time OFC Champions League-winning coach with Solomon Warriors.
This marks Ne’e’s debut in a national coaching role.
Despite the national team’s recent challenges, including not advancing regionally at the club level and an early exit in senior men’s competition, both coaches are optimistic about the U19 squad’s prospects.
“We always aim to elevate the players to the highest standard,” said Ne’e.
“For me, this is a new challenge, especially with a national team. I’m honored to work alongside Batram to learn and help our young players develop.”
The full squad is;
GOALKEEPERS
George Rioa
Gideon Abidan
Nelson Vaji
DEFENDERS
Floyd Wasima’asu
Teddy Osifela
Billy Afi
Bismark Sisika
Christopher Samo
Gordon Iro
William Arofa
MIDFIELDERS
Joash Houkulu
Zopoa Besa
Ryan Sogo Tuhaika
Martin Koto
Junior Albert
Jayroll Patty
FORWARDS
James Laena
Lamupio Ninamo
Abraham Morgan
Pual Francis
John Dioko
Stanley Sope
Jimson Abana
The Solomon Islands will kick off their Group A campaign against Vanuatu on July 5, followed by matches against Fiji on July 8 and Tahiti on July 11.
The team is set to depart next Tuesday, July 2.
