Rigo hosts Southern PNGFA Cup

Opening match between host's Koupa Gold and Gemo FC in pool A of the Southern Region PNGFA Cup at Kaparoko village, Central *(Image: NBC News)*

More than 20 teams from Central, Milne Bay, and Western have converged on Kaparoko village in the Rigo Coast area of Central for the Papua New Guinea Football Association [PNGFA] Cup Southern Region qualifiers which kicked off yesterday.

The week-long tournament has drawn 20 men’s and four women’s teams, with the grand finals set for Saturday.

Host association Koupa Soccer Association has entered 16 teams representing its associate members across Rigo Central, East, North, and Coast. Visiting sides include Alotau, Esa'ala, and Tabubil soccer associations.

PNGFA Southern Region vice-president Morea Vavine said the tournament serves as a direct pathway to the national stage.

Parallel regional qualifiers are currently underway in Madang for the Momase region, Mendi for the Highlands, and designated centers across the New Guinea Islands.

“The champion and runner-up in both the men’s and women’s divisions will qualify to represent the Southern region at the PNGFA National Championships,” Vavine said.

PNGFA Southern Region vice-president Morea Vavine officiating the opening ceremony of the weeklong tournament *(Image: NBC News)*

Vavine, who has headed the Koupa association for two decades, commended the local village sides for stepping up to compete against established member associations.

“These village associations have been trying to get into this championship for many years,” Vavine said.

“They have been playing within their own villages for a long time, but now they have a platform to showcase their talent. I am confident our local associate teams will give the visiting teams a good run for their money.

"I am even tipping a village team like Kamali or Kalo to push all the way and challenge for the title.”

Vavine said grassroots tournaments in Rigo have historically served as a nursery for top-tier talent, recapping the 2016 Besta Cup held at the same venue which produced several current Premier Soccer League [PSL] and national youth players.

Meanwhile, Vavine expressed disappointment over the lack of backing from local political leaders, claiming formal requests for assistance sent to district and provincial leaders last month went unanswered.

He urged leaders to recognize the social value of sports and support youth development initiatives, considering that soccer remains the dominant sport in the district.