Vanuatu United FC head coach Lars Hopp, has admitted frustration after his side was forced to settle for a draw against Tahiti United, saying his team “should have taken three points” from what he felt was a winnable match.Hopp said, “It was a hard-fought game. Both sides went to the very end.”“We had enough chances to win, though they also had a few.”“The overall feeling is that we had more to give.”“Despite, I am happy the boys earned something today after losing points twice in similar situations.”The match was played under challenging midday heat at the Santos National Football Stadium (NFS) in Port Moresby, but Hopp praised both teams for handling the conditions well.He said, “It is a beautiful stadium, and it is hot this time of day, so credit to all players for pushing themselves.”“That is why we talk about this being a squad tournament as everyone needs to be ready, including those on the bench, because games can be decided late.”Looking ahead to their upcoming clash against PNG Hekari FC, Hopp said recovery was his main priority before tactical preparations begin.“Some of the boys are already in the ice baths.”“Then it will be about analysing both this match and the next opponent.”Hopp, who has coached in Europe, described the competition’s standard as roughly comparable to Germany’s third or fourth tier, although adapted to the demanding regional environment.“It is a fantastic tournament and is also only the first year, but you really feel that we’re all building something together.”The coach credited his squad’s fitness for their strong second-half performance.“A lot of matches are decided in the final minutes,” he explained.“We plan our games so we get stronger, not weaker, towards the end.”When asked about refereeing and the new use of VAR technology in the region, Hopp called it a “learning process” for all involved.“It is the first time VAR has been used for club football here.”“Some decisions were tough, but it is about improving communication between referees, coaches, and organizers.”“That is how the game grows.”Upon reflecting on Papua New Guinea’s tropical climate, Hopp said both local and foreign players are coping and adapting well.“Our overseas players trained in Vanuatu, so they’re used to the heat now.”“Good fitness, hydration, and preparation are key.”“The local players already showed their strength during the MSG Cup, so it all comes down to hard work.”

PNG Hekari FC coach Marcos Gusmao has praised his side’s fighting spirit despite suffering another late defeat, this time going down narrowly to league leaders Auckland FC in a hard-fought OFC Pro League encounter.Hekari were minutes away from securing a valuable point before conceding late in the match, continuing a frustrating trend of last-minute setbacks.After the match, Gusmao said, “I think we worked really hard during the week. We knew Auckland FC are a strong team, but we came here with a good spirit and a mindset to fight until the final whistle.”“Unfortunately, we were unlucky again and lost in the last few minutes.”Asked about the refereeing, Gusmao took a measured stance, acknowledging some questionable decisions while stressing the need to move forward.“This is football. The final decisions are made by the referees.”“Some calls, I think, can improve, but that is their job. We just need to focus on doing our job as a team.”Hekari made several changes to their starting line-up, including the return of experienced midfielder Raymond Gunemba, who had been rested during the team’s campaign in New Zealand.Gusmao explained, “We made some slight changes. Raymond is one of our experienced players, and we brought him in to help lead the boys.”“That’s football, sometimes you change, sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t.”Despite the loss, Gusmao highlighted positives from his squad’s performance, while admitting concentration and fitness remain areas of concern.“The boys played well, but there was a lack of concentration in the final moments.”“When you play against a good team that has been together for a long time, one chance is enough.”“We need to improve our fitness and our organization, especially against strong opponents.”At half-time, Gusmao’s message to the players was clear.“Keep going, keep pushing, keep going forward.”“We tried to get at least one goal, but it didn’t happen. That’s football.”Meanwhile, the coach also addressed a VAR incident involving Rex, where an initial red card was downgraded to a yellow after review.“The referee gave the red card, then reviewed it and decided it wasn’t that serious,” Gusmao said. “That decision was made after the reference.”Late substitutions were made in injury time as Hekari pushed for an equaliser, a move Gusmao said was planned.“We needed speed up front.”“Our strikers were tired, so we brought on young players to add pace and try to create one chance.” “It is also an opportunity for the young boys to show they want to play.”Looking ahead, Hekari will face Vanuatu United in a mid-week fixture, with Gusmao expecting another tough contest.“It does not stop,” he said.“Vanuatu are also fighting for points, just like us.”“We need to go back, organise ourselves, and work hard — especially on our finishing.”“If we can improve that, hopefully we will do our best.”Hekari return to training immediately as they prepare for Tuesday’s clash against Vanuatu in the OFC Pro League.

Vanuatu United FC and Tahiti United kicked off Round 2 of the OFC Pro League which is now underway at the Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby, with both sides putting on an entertaining contest despite the intense heat, ending the game with a draw at full time.Both teams struggled to settle early, with the opening stages scrappy and lacking fluency. Tahiti enjoyed more possession and created several chances across both halves, while Vanuatu looked more dangerous when breaking forward and carved out the clearer scoring opportunities. Tahiti were first to find the net in the 27th minute through Germain Haewegene. After Vanuatu failed to properly clear a corner, the ball was played through and Haewegene finished confidently past goalkeeper Matt Acton. Vanuatu responded eleven minutes later when Alex Saniel was fouled inside the penalty area. Following a brief VAR check, a spot kick was awarded and Owen Smith calmly converted in the 38th minute to send the teams into the break level at 1-1. The second half opened at a much quicker pace, with both sides pushing for the lead. Tahiti captain Teaonui Tehau put his team back in front in the 56th minute, ghosting through the Vanuatu defence before slotting home. However, the advantage lasted just two minutes. In the 58th minute, William Cardona capitalized on a goalkeeping error, guiding his effort into the top corner to bring Vanuatu level once again. As the match progressed, the tempo slowed under the heat and humidity, and neither side could find a decisive goal. The match ended with both teams settling for a point as Round 2 got underway.

Young Papua New Guinean footballer Raymond Diho, says playing in the OFC Pro League has been a valuable learning experience as he continues to grow in a professional football environment.Raymond, who currently plays for a Vanuatu-based club in the OFC Pro League, is a versatile defender capable of playing at right back, centre back, and as a defensive midfielder. Reflecting on Round One of the competitions, Raymond told PNG HAUSBUNG that the experience of playing alongside more seasoned professionals was both challenging and rewarding. “It was a good experience playing with boys who have more experience in a professional environment.” “I was able to learn from them and gain knowledge that I can bring into Round Two, especially now that we are playing in my home country.” As one of the youngest players in the Pro League, Raymond said being selected meant a great deal to him and motivated him to contribute positively to the team. “It means a lot to me playing as one of the youngest in the group. I am really happy to be called up, and I am also hoping to bring my skills to help the team as much as I can.” Raymond also acknowledged the pressure that comes with competing at a professional level but said he is managing it well. “There is a lot of pressure as a young footballer in a professional environment, but I think I am handling it pretty well.” The young defender’s football journey began early, earning his first call-up to the PNG national team at just 17 years old. He described the selection as a proud moment in his career. “It was my first call-up to the PNG international team, and I was really happy about that.” Raymond explained that his move from playing locally in PNG to joining a club in Vanuatu came after being approached by a former coach in December last year. “It was different, but a good transition. I went to Vanuatu because they reached out to me and gave me the opportunity.” Despite representing a club outside PNG, Raymond said his national identity remains strong. “It’s an honour representing a club in another country, but I still have that PNG pride in me, and that will never change.” Looking ahead, Raymond said his personal goal is to win the Pro League title and continue competing at a high level in the coming seasons. He also sees the OFC Pro League as a steppingstone toward greater opportunities internationally and encouraged young Papua New Guineans to chase their dreams. “If you are young and you love the game, fight for your dreams and keep pushing. You will achieve it if you believe in yourself,” he concluded.                     

The inaugural OFC Pro League matches kick off this weekend in Port Moresby, with Vanuatu United facing Tahiti United at 11:30AM, followed by PNG Hekari FC taking on Auckland FC at 3:30PM.Speaking to PNG Haus Bung, PNG Hekari FC striker and winger Rex Naime, said Round One was a tough challenge, but the team is confident heading into Round Two on home soil. “It was a bit tough because this is a big-league competition. But we have the confidence to play in these Round Two matches,” Naime said. He described competing at the OFC stage as a major achievement, representing the highest level of football in the Oceania region. “It is a big dream for all of us, every player. Especially for me, it is my dream to play at this level, and I am thankful and grateful to the big man up there for giving me this opportunity.” Reflecting on their Round One clash against Auckland FC, Naime acknowledged the strength of the opposition but said the team is ready to stand their ground with strong support from fans. “It is very important for us at PNG Hekari to win because we lost two of our games in Round One. So, it’s crucial that we come back strong.” Naime called on supporters and the local community to turn out in numbers to boost the team’s morale and cheer them on during the matches.

South Island FC’s Ollie Van Rijssel, has declared his side prepared and eager as the Pro League moves into Round Two in Port Moresby.Speaking after returning to Papua New Guinea where he last played during the FIFA World Cup qualifiers, Rijssel said competing in Port Moresby is always demanding, but the squad is prepared for the challenge. “It’s good to be back. Playing here is always a challenge, but the boys are ready and looking forward to a good Round Two,” he said, adding that favorable weather conditions would help the team’s performance. Rijssel described South Island FC’s experience in the Pro League so far as positive, highlighting the youthful makeup of the squad. “We have a young team, but you can see that we play good football.” “The boys are energetic, and I think Round Two will be a good one for us.” Addressing off-field issues, Rijssel stressed that the team remains focused solely on football. “At the end of the day, whatever the outcome is, we just need to follow it.” “For us, it is about focusing on football, sticking to the game plan, and playing our game.” Looking ahead to their match against Solomon Kings, Rijssel acknowledged the quality of the opposition, noting that many of their players are familiar through national team duties. “They are a good side, but we will focus on ourselves and what we need to do on the field to get the result.” Moreover, he has called on supporters in Port Moresby and back home to continue backing the team. “To our supporters here, please come out in numbers and support us. We need the 12th man.” “And to those back home, please keep us in your prayers.”

OFC Pro League’s first-ever goal scorer, Alex Saniel of Vanuatu United FC, says his team is ready and motivated heading into the next round of matches, despite a challenging start to the competition. Vanuatu United recorded two losses and one draw in Round 1 of the OFC Pro League, which was held in Auckland, New Zealand. Saniel said the experience gained during the opening round has helped the team improve, particularly with its pool of young local talent competing at a professional level. “We have many young players in the squad, and playing the first round in Auckland gave us valuable experience to build on for this round,” he said. Saniel also reflected on the historic moment of scoring the league’s first-ever goal, describing it as an unforgettable achievement. “I felt so happy to score as the first man to score the first-ever goal in the professional league in the Oceania region. I am also looking forward to scoring more goals this round.” Upon arrival at Jacksons International Airport yesterday afternoon, Vanuatu United FC received a warm welcome from the local Vanuatu community, a gesture Saniel said meant a great deal to the team. “Thank you so much for the support. Every time we come to PNG, we are always backed by the community here, and thank you very much,” he said. Vanuatu United FC is set to face Tahiti United this Saturday at the Santos National Football Stadium, with kickoff scheduled for 11:30 a.m. Saniel has called on fans and members of the local Vanuatu community to come out in numbers and support the team with pride.

Bula FC and Vanuatu United FC arrived in Port Moresby this afternoon ahead of their matches this weekend in R2 of the OFC Pro League fixtures at the Santos National Football Stadium. Bula FC captain Roy Krishna who scored Bula FC's first-ever goal in Round 1 of the OFC Pro League, said the Fijian side is looking forward to getting started in Round 2 in Port Moresby as they go up against Solomon Kings FC this Sunday. He said, “The boys are ready and looking forward to a good round 2.” Speaking after returning to the country following the FIFA World Cup qualifiers, Krishna said it was good to be back, despite the challenges of playing in Papua New Guinea. He noted that the team is well prepared and hopeful for good weather conditions during the upcoming matches. Krishna described Bula FC’s Pro League experience so far as positive, highlighting the energy and confidence of the squad. He said the team may be young, but the players have shown maturity and experience in the way they play football. “The experience has been good. We have a young squad, and you can see we play football although we are young and we have the experience.” The Bula FC skipper also emphasized that the team remains focused on football, choosing not to be distracted by off-field matters. He said the players are committed to following their game plan and giving their best performance on the field. Looking ahead to their clash against Solomon Kings, Krishna acknowledged the strength of the opposition, noting that many of their players are familiar from the national team setup. However, he stressed that Bula FC’s focus will be on their own performance to achieve a positive result. Krishna also called on supporters in Port Moresby to come out in large numbers, describing fans as the team’s “12th man.” He thanked supporters back home and asked them to continue keeping the team in their prayers as they compete in the Pro League.

Auckland FC arrived this afternoon in Port Moresby city ahead of the OFC Pro League match this weekend, and it looks like defender Michael Heijer is taking on the captain’s role after regular skipper Taz, was ruled out with a hamstring injury. Heijer confirmed he will lead the side when Auckland FC face PNG Hekari United FC on Saturday, as the club looks to continue its strong start to the competition. Auckland FC sits at the top of the table after an impressive opening round, recording three wins from three matches to collect nine points. Heijer described the opening to the season as an exciting one, especially after kicking off the campaign at home in Auckland, New Zealand. “We’re very happy with the three wins and being top of the table. It’s a great place to start,” Heijer said. Looking ahead to the upcoming fixture, Heijer expects a challenging contest, noting that Papua New Guinea will be an unfamiliar territory for several players in the squad. “We know it’s going to be very tough,” he said. “The conditions won’t be easy for us, but we’re up for the challenge and excited. We’re expecting a big crowd as well.” Despite Auckland FC being labelled by some as favorites due to the club’s history and squad depth, Heijer played down expectations, stressing that the team is young and that no match can be taken lightly. “Every team in this competition is difficult,” he said. “We’ve already had tough moments in our games, so we’re not taking anything for granted.” Heijer also thanked supporters back in Auckland for their continued backing and expressed excitement about experiencing football in Papua New Guinea for the first time. He added that the introduction of the OFC professional competition represents a significant step forward for football in the region, creating new opportunities for players and fans alike. Saturday’s match is expected to attract a large crowd as Auckland FC begin their campaign in Papua New Guinea.

Motorists in Port Moresby city can now commute through the 2 Mile Hill area but are advised to exercise caution after police conducted roadblocks at Murray Barracks and Badili to ensure the safety of both pedestrians and motorists.Following the incident that led to the eviction of settlers at 2 Mile Hill, Badili Police Station Commander, Chief Sergeant Abel Andrew, recounted the events that triggered the current situation in the area. He told PNG HAUSBUNG that this was not the first-time settlers from the area had come onto the road to attack civilians or police officers. “Every day and every week they come up to the road and do these things,” Chief Sergeant Andrew said. “In that incident, they held up a soldier at SVS, who reported the matter to police. When officers attempted to apprehend the suspects on Saturday, they retaliated.” Chief Sergeant Andrew clarified that the officers involved at the time were not from Badili Police Station, but from a different unit within the National Capital District who had gone in to assist. “They attacked the police by firing shots at them, and this was a different unit, not Badili officers,” he said. He further revealed that the group later went to the Badili Police Station and attacked four officers who were on duty. “They literally went into the station and there were more than a hundred of them. They outnumbered the four officers at the scene,” Chief Sergeant Andrew said. Fortunately, he said armed officers from the single barracks located behind the Badili Police Station responded and assisted their counterparts. “During the commotion, some officers were injured. Stones were thrown, and one officer was hit on the forehead,” he said. Meanwhile, police are urging commuters to take necessary precautions when travelling through the 2 Mile Hill area.

Motorists in Port Moresby city can now commute through the 2 Mile Hill area after police conducted roadblocks at Murray Barracks and Badili to ensure the safety of commuters, both pedestrians and motorists.The operation follows the incident over the weekend in which a group of men allegedly fired gunshots at a police unit before fleeing into the 2 Mile Hill settlement during the night. An eviction exercise was subsequently carried out by police yesterday that saw homes and properties destroyed. Speaking to PNG HAUSBUNG, a police officer on the ground said that all official information and updates regarding the situation will be provided by the Badili Police Station Commander (PSC) during a briefing scheduled for the afternoon. Meanwhile, the road from Murray Barracks through 2 Mile Hill to Badili has been cleared and is currently quiet. However, members of the public are advised to exercise caution when commuting through the area.

Education leaders are raising concerns over Papua New Guinea’s capacity to absorb the growing number of Grade 12 school leavers into tertiary institutions, warning of serious social consequences if the issue is not urgently addressed.College Director of the Mount Hagen School of Nursing, Mr. Gabriel Kewa, said between 25,000 and 32,000 student’s complete secondary education across the country each year, yet opportunities for further training and higher education remain limited. Mr. Kewa said many school leavers are left without pathways into employment or skills training, increasing the risk of frustration and social instability. “This is a challenge for the government and all stakeholders. We are sitting on a time bomb if we do not create more opportunities for training and education,” he said. He called on policymakers, politicians, and education authorities to prioritize investment in tertiary institutions, particularly in regions with high youth populations and limited access to training facilities. Mr. Kewa made the comments as the Mount Hagen School of Nursing prepares to finalize its student intake for the upcoming academic year. The institution has received strong interest from applicants nationwide, reflecting the demand for professional training opportunities. He said expanding access to education and skills training is critical to maintaining social stability and supporting long-term national development. The Mount Hagen School of Nursing is expected to begin classes later this month.