The OFC U15 Boys Development Tournament, currently taking place in Auckland, aims to bring together football academies from the region for a unique competitive experience. Supported by UEFA Assist, the tournament features academy teams from Vanuatu, Tahiti, Fiji, Tonga, Cook Islands, Solomon Islands, and a development team from Liechtenstein.
The tournament provides young players with valuable international tournament exposure, including travel, competitive matches, and associated training. It serves as a platform to showcase the OFC National Academies and Centre of Excellence programs. Patrick Jacquemet, OFC’s Chief of Football Development, emphasizes the developmental nature of the tournament for players, coaches, and officials involved, thanks to the professionalism demonstrated on and off the field.
Participants in the tournament will benefit from workshops on psychology and nutrition, as well as a Q&A session with Christian Karembeu, a former member of the victorious French team in the 1998 FIFA World Cup. Karembeu’s presence adds to the personal development aspect of the tournament, especially for players experiencing international competition for the first time.
The tournament, which commenced on 11 April, follows a format where all matches proceed to penalty shootouts, regardless of the full-time results. This design ensures that players gain experience and exposure in pressure-filled scenarios. Vanuatu recently arrived in Auckland and played their first match against Fiji on Saturday 15 April, resulting in a 1-1 draw. Their next match is scheduled against Tahiti on Tuesday 18 April.
The OFC U15 Boys Development Tournament offers a valuable opportunity for young talents to grow and develop, enhancing the football landscape in the region.
