Solo a step away from maiden FIFA 11-a-side competition debut
By Taromane Martin
MID fielders Henly Ramo and Frank Kabui are confident Solomon Islands can book a spot for next year’s U-20 FIFA World Cup in Poland today when they meet Tahiti in the second semi-final of the 2018 OFC U-20 Championship.
The north Malaita duo was the midfield heart of the Malaita Eagles U-19 provincial soccer team that won the Youth Solomon Cup early this year at Lawson Tama.
They said playing at the OFC level is totally a different experience compared to the village and national level they have been playing at.
“This level here is totally different compared to other levels I played at back at home,” Kabui told SIFF media officer Simon Abana yesterday.
“All the teams competing here are tough. The level is different. I’m happy and it makes me want go on further because this is the level I have always dreamed about and always wanted to reach.
“After three wins and still yet to lose points I’m fully confident we can win the semi. I’m not underestimating Tahiti but I hope and believe we have a chance to win.
“I look forward to playing against Tahiti in the semis. All the boys are confident and hope to get the result tomorrow,” the 19 year old said.
Meanwhile Henly Ramo who will join Kabui at Malaita Kingz FC for the new TSL season also expressed the same sentiments for today’s semi-final match saying it will be treated like just another game.
“Coming from and starting from village level and to come and play at this OFC Championship is different experience itself.
“The Youth Solomon Cup and TSL compared to this tournament is a big difference. The level here is much competitive.
“I believe Solomon Islands will create history at this tournament and qualify for the U-20 FIFA World Cup next year.
“This match for me will be treated just like the other past three matches. I’m confident, the same goes for all the boys, and we are really looking forward to taking on Tahiti,” the blonde midfield maestro, Ramo said.
Solomon Islands will meet Tahiti in the second semi-final of the OFC U-20 Championship 2:30pm (Solomon time) today at the Stade Pater in Pirae Tahiti.
