Photo Caption: Young Kennedy wearing the armband during the OFC U16 Preliminary qualifiers in April. Photo: OFC Media
Solomon Islands Men’s U16 captain and promising star, Kennedy Sihiu, is brimming with confidence as he prepares to lead his teammates once again for a FIFA World Cup dream at the OFC Men’s U16 Championship in Tahiti.
Following their triumphant OFC preliminary qualification in April, young Kennedy has showcased his leadership by guiding his team to victory and securing a spot in Group B of the championship.
This tournament will serve as the Oceania qualifying competition for the FIFA U17 World Cup 2025 in Qatar. OFC has confirmed that teams from Oceania will be guaranteed 3 spots at the FIFA U17 World Cup 2025, with the winners, runners-up, and third and fourth-place teams qualifying.
Kennedy’s football journey began on the futsal courts during high school tournaments, thanks to the active Bulk Shop Futsal competition. His skills and determination saw him rise through the youth club ranks, starting with Laugu United U19 and later to the Central Coast FC U19 team.
This cool, pace-setting midfielder from South Malaita is known for his mesmerizing passes and quality ball distribution, making him a promising prospect for the national team’s future.
“We have been preparing well for this tournament and we will give our best out there representing the country,” Kennedy said. “My football career is picking up, and I’m dedicated to what I love. I will continue to reach new heights as far as I’m called to wear the senior team jersey one day.”
The now 16-year-old and his teammates have a strong bond, having played together since the OFC Men’s U15 Championship in New Zealand in 2022. Their familiarity with each other’s playstyles and strengths gives them a competitive edge.
“I’m confident in my teammates. We have known each other since our early playing days, and our strengths match well. I want to thank our families for always supporting us, especially our parents. I want to make them proud. I call on our fellow countrymen and women to support the team because we are young ambassadors flying our flag out there on the field or anywhere, we go.”
The Solomon Islands National team is grouped alongside hosts Tahiti, Samoa, and New Caledonia in Group B. They will begin their campaign against the host nation on Tuesday 30 July at 11:00 am local time, followed by Samoa on Friday, August 2 at 8:00 am and New Caledonia on Monday, August 5 at 8:00 am (All on Solomon Islands dates and time).
The team leaves today evening Thursday 25 July at 4:00 pm.
All matches will be LIVE & FREE on FIFA + Oceania Football Confederation (fifa.com)
The global competition has expanded to 48 teams from around the world, making the stakes higher and the opportunities more for the Oceania nations.
-SIFF Media
