OFC Pro-League Brings Elite Football Action to PNG

Football fans in Papua New Guinea are set for a rare treat as the Santos National Football Stadium prepares to host a major round of the OFC Professional League later this month.

The Port Moresby venue will stage six match days between January 31 and February 8, placing PNG among key hosts of the region’s first fully professional club competition. The matches form part of rounds four to six of the league calendar.

PNG club Hekari United will headline the local fixtures [Photo by Hekari media]

OFC officials say logistics for the tournament have been carefully coordinated, with all visiting teams’ flights and accommodation confirmed ahead of time. Clubs will arrive from New Zealand, Fiji, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands, Tahiti and Australia.

According to OFC media operations manager Matt Brown, work has been ongoing behind the scenes to ensure all facilities meet professional standards. He said training venues are being assessed in collaboration with the PNGFA, while the playing surface at the national stadium continues to undergo close monitoring.

PNG club Hekari United will headline the local fixtures, opening their home campaign against Auckland FC before meeting Vanuatu United and Solomon Islands United in subsequent matches. Organisers expect strong local attendance, especially for Hekari’s games.

Tickets have gone on sale through approved platforms and outlets around the city. Although there will be no official opening ceremony, Brown said the focus remains firmly on delivering quality football.
“This competition is about showcasing the best football in the region, and PNG is ready to play its part,” he said.