Pacific champions eye place on football’s biggest Oceania stage

The Sāmoa Football Headquarters will host the qualifying tournament, bringing together champions from Sāmoa, the Cook Islands, American Sāmoa, and Tonga.

Each nation is chasing a single place at Oceania’s top club competition later this year.

Hosts Vaivase-Tai FC carry momentum and pressure as they return to the qualifying stage for a second straight year.

In 2024, the Sāmoan champions topped their group with two wins, including a memorable 14-0 result, before gaining valuable experience at the final tournament.

Physical trainer Taumateina Tugaga says playing at home brings added responsibility, but also belief.

“The challenge is on us as hosts. There is pressure, but it’s a golden opportunity," Tugaga said in a statement. "We learned a lot last year and we know now what level is required.”

Taumateina Tugaga says playing at home brings added responsibility, but also belief. Photo/OFC Media/Avii Faalupega Studio.

He says the experience of facing top clubs in 2024 has lifted both players and preparation, and shown Sāmoan football what is possible.

From the Cook Islands, Tupapa Maraerenga FC arrive as the most experienced side in the field.

This will be their tenth appearance in the OFC Men’s Champions League, having won the qualifying stage four times, most recently in 2025.

Paavo Mustonen says the boys are ready for this tournament, especially after gaining the experience that we did last year. Photo/OFC Media/vii Faalupega Studio

Head coach Paavo Mustonen says his side knows what it takes, but nothing will be easy.

“Our goal is to finish on top, but it will be tough and decided right to the end. When the chance comes, we must take it.”

Mustonen also believes qualification would have a wider impact beyond results.

“The players gain experience and bring it home. That helps grow football in the Cook Islands.”

Paul Ualesi says it will be a huge milestone if the side reach the second stage. Photo/OFC Media/Avii Faalupega Studio

Pago Youth FC of American Sāmoa arrive with confidence after a dominant domestic season, scoring an extraordinary 198 goals in 20 matches.

This will be their fifth appearance in the competition, and they are aiming to make history by becoming the first American Sāmoan club to reach the second stage.

Head coach Paul Ualesi says the challenge is clear. “This is a tough tournament and the level is high. We stay united and respect every opponent. Qualifying would be a huge milestone for our club and our country.”

Making their tournament debut are Nukuhetulu FC of Tonga, only the third Tongan club ever to compete in the OFC Men’s Champions League.

Lafaele Moala says they are not in Sāmoa as tourists, "but here to compete". Photo/OFC Media/Avii Faalupega Studio

Formed just five years ago, their rise has been fast and their ambition even faster.

Coach Lafaele Moala says his players are ready to compete, not just take part. “We may be small in size, but we are big in heart. We are not here as tourists. If we qualify, we will rewrite history for Tonga.”

Matches kick off on Saturday, 31 January, at the Sāmoa Football Headquarters in Apia.

With pride, history and a place on Oceania’s biggest club stage on the line, the Pacific spotlight will firmly be on Sāmoa this weekend.