PNG Hekari FC has flown out to Auckland, New Zealand as they aim to make history in the inaugural OFC Professional League especially when the Papua New Guinea champions are set to face Solomon Kings in their opening match this weekend.
The tournament marks the first fully professional club competition in Oceania and represents a major step forward for both the club and PNG football.
The Red Army will open their campaign on Sunday 18th of January 2026 against the Solomon Kings, before facing Tahiti United and South Melbourne in the opening round of fixtures.
The tournament brings together top clubs from across the Oceania region and will be staged entirely in Auckland.
Hekari FC General Manager Wira Wama said the team is well prepared for the challenge after an intensive 12-week training program.
“Our OFC Pro League campaign officially kicks off on Sunday when we take on the Solomon Kings. I have full confidence and trust in the players and the coaching staff,” Wama said. “We have an experienced technical team that is ready to deliver for the club and for the country.”
Head Coach, Marcos Gusmão of Brazil echoed those sentiments, describing the team’s preparation as thorough and encouraging.
“We have been preparing for almost three months. The training has been good, and the players have blended well and understand each other’s combinations. They are ready to compete at Pro League level,” Gusmão said.
Technical coach Jerry Sam and assistant coach Jerry Allan, brothers from the Solomon Islands, said their familiarity with Solomon Islands football would be an advantage, particularly in the opening match.
“We are confident in the team. The preparation has been really good, and we know the strengths of a few players from the Solomon Islands side, who we will be watching closely,” they said.
Team captain Dave Tomare said it was an honour to lead the side in its first OFC Pro League campaign.
“I am humbled and honoured to be appointed captain. I thank the coaching staff, management and players for their trust and support,” Tomare said. “We have been waiting for this moment, and it finally arrives on Sunday.”
Wama also acknowledged the club’s major sponsors—Mineral Resources Development Company (MRDC), Petroleum Resources Kutubu (PRK) and Kutubu Security Services (KSS)—for their long-standing support.
“They have played a vital role in the growth and development of Hekari PNG over the past 22 years and continue to support sport and community development across the country,” he said.
He further paid tribute to club founders John Kapi Nato and Vonnie Kapi Nato for their vision and leadership.
“Competing in the OFC Pro League is a milestone achievement for the club and for Papua New Guinea. It gives our local players the opportunity to experience football at a higher level and on a bigger stage,” Wama said.
Hekari PNG FC left for Auckland this morning and will complete their final preparations ahead of Sunday’s opening match.
