MSG Cup Semifinals Shifted to Thursday to Meet Player Safety Rules
Papua New Guinea will now host all men’s and women’s semifinals of the Melanesian Spearhead Group Prime Minister’s Cup on Thursday, following a major scheduling change announced by the Host Organizing Committee. Officials confirmed the shift yesterday, saying the adjustment was necessary to comply with international match regulations and safeguard players.
The committee explained that the revised schedule comes after New Caledonia’s earlier withdrawal, which created what they describe as a tightly packed match program for the remaining teams. To meet MSG and FIFA requirements, all squads must receive a minimum of 48 hours’ rest between games, prompting the decision to delay fixtures initially planned for Wednesday.
Organisers said the move supports athlete welfare and ensures a higher-quality semifinal showcase at the PNG Football Stadium. They noted that hosting all semifinals on the same day and at one venue will help improve broadcast reach, enhance livestream quality, and increase crowd attendance.
Officials added that the shift also aligns with this year’s theme, Celebrate Melanesia, which aims to bring supporters from across the region together for shared moments of football pride and excitement.
Meanwhile, the 3rd/4th Place Playoffs and the Grand Finals remain unchanged and will be staged on Sunday at the Sir John Guise Stadium. The committee thanked teams, officials, and supporters for their patience as Papua New Guinea works to deliver a safe, fair, and exciting regional football tournament.
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