Samoa in must-win situation

By Vaelei Von Dincklage 03 November 2024, 8:30PM

The Samoa men's football team have their work cut out for them as they must win their remaining matches in the Oceania qualifiers if they want a place at the FIFA World Cup.

The team went down 4-1 against Vanuatu in the first round of the qualifiers and now face Tahiti next and New Zealand in their last match.

Head coach Jess Ibrom said they have raised the intensity during training. A loss against Tahiti would end the World Cup dream. 

"Since the players returned from Vanuatu, the local based players have been training hard in a strong physical preparation program. Alongside this, our overseas players have been doing the same in various locations," he said.

Additionally, a training camp in New Zealand, including a game against a local league team, is planned to further enhance their readiness. Their team is committed to giving their best efforts in training and competition. The stakes are high for them if they want to qualify for the FIFA World Cup.

"In terms of qualification, it's going to be very challenging. It's certainly not impossible, and we have to beat Tahiti to give ourselves a chance and then hope that our results go our way," Ibrom said.

"But we will certainly be going all out to try and get a successful result against Tahiti, which will be our first match. Once we get to NZ, we will be having a training camp.

"The friendly game will further help, and prepare us as we lead into our fixture against Tahiti."

Their match against Tahiti is on 15 November at 5 pm, while their second match against NZ is on 18 November at 7.30 pm.


Tags

Football
Oceania Football Confederation
By Vaelei Von Dincklage 03 November 2024, 8:30PM
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