Pacific football clubs take centre stage as Australia hosts new round of Pro League

Pacific football is on the move.

After two electrifying rounds of the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) Pro League in New Zealand and Papua New Guinea, the region’s top clubs are heading to Melbourne from 21 February to 4 March for round three.

The OFC says it is a chance for the players to test themselves against strong opposition and gain vital international experience.

Eight Pacific clubs will compete in 15 matches across two Melbourne venues.

All teams will play at least three matches, with six playing four, as organisers also make up three round one fixtures that were postponed.

For players from the Pacific, this isn’t just another round of football. It’s a rare chance to showcase talent in professional-grade venues, adapt to different conditions, and build experience that will help their national teams and young players back home.

Photo/OFC Media

Venues set the stage

The first matches will take place on 21 and 22 February at Olympic Village in Heidelberg West, a historic ground built for the 1956 Melbourne Olympics and home to local club Heidelberg United.

With a 12,000 capacity, the OFC says it gives Pacific players a taste of big-match environments.

From 24 February to 4 March, the competition moves to the Home of the Matildas at La Trobe University Sports Park.

Olympic Village was originally built for the 1956 Summer Olympics in Melbourne. Photo/OFC Media

Opened in 2023, it is Australia’s elite women’s football training base and regularly hosts professional matches.

For Pacific teams, playing here provides access to high-quality facilities that are rarely available in the region.

Opportunity on and off the pitch

The Melbourne round is about more than points. It is an opportunity for Pacific clubs to gain experience in international travel, professional training setups, and high-pressure matches.

All of these games are important for growing football in the region. Young players, in particular, can be inspired by seeing what it takes to perform on a bigger stage.

Tickets are now on sale via Intix for all matches, including the rescheduled Round 1 fixtures. Fans can follow the action and cheer for Pacific teams as they continue their journey in the league.

The OFC Pro League is shining a spotlight on Pacific football. From the first whistle in New Zealand to the last goal in Melbourne, the competition is helping clubs and players build confidence, improve standards, and raise the profile of the sport across the islands.

For Pacific fans, round three is not just football. It’s a celebration of talent, ambition, and pride from across the region, taking on the world and proving that Pacific football is here to compete.

For more information on the OFC Pro League, click here.