Solomon Islands women touch down in Port Moresby for historic MSG Cup debut

A vibrant Melanesian welcome greeted the Solomon Islands women’s football team at Jacksons International Airport today, as they became the first team to arrive for the 2025 Melanesian Spearhead Group [MSG] Prime Ministers Cup.

Their arrival was highly anticipated, with this year’s tournament introducing a women’s competition for the first time since the Cup’s inception.

Head coach Dan Barrett, who took charge of the Solomon Islands women’s team just two weeks ago, says facing host nation Papua New Guinea will be a major test but one his side is eager to face.

“Playing PNG on their home soil will be a huge challenge, but the team is excited and ready,” Barrett said.

He also urged the Solomon Islands community in Port Moresby to turn out in numbers and cheer for their team throughout the tournament.

The MSG Prime Ministers Cup is set to run from November 11 to 22, bringing together teams from member nations of the Melanesian Spearhead Group, using football as a platform to promote unity, friendship, and cultural pride across the Pacific.

Barrett says competition is about maintaining the Melanesian spirit and solidarity among neighboring nations.

The Solomon Islands women’s side will begin their campaign next week as they look to make their mark in the first-ever women’s edition of the regional tournament.