Vaivase-Tai football club will represent Samoa at the 2026 OFC Men’s Champions League qualifiers, carrying national pride and home-soil expectations as the tournament is hosted locally.

Head coach Horst Petana said the opportunity is humbling and motivating as his side prepares to compete once again for a place in Oceania’s premier club competition.

“I am thankful to the Lord for this opportunity. I am humbled and excited to lead our team to the OFC Men's Champions League qualifiers, representing not only Vaivase Football Club but our country in this regional tournament,” Petana said.

Petana acknowledged the pressure that comes with representing Samoa, especially as hosts, but said the team is drawing confidence from past success. Vaivase-Tai previously topped the qualifiers in 2024 in Tonga and is determined to repeat the feat.

“Representing our country carries a lot of weight; in addition to that, the tournament is hosted locally. We have competed before in the qualifiers (2024 in Tonga) and came out as the top team; we are fighting for that spot again this year. The boys are in high spirits and are determined to win this on home soil,” he said.

Preparation, Petana added, has been both physical and mental, with months of hard training behind the squad despite ongoing challenges.

“The boys have been working hard during training and have been at it for the past few months. There are challenges we face, but we push through with determination. Losing at home is not a preferred option for us, and we have worked hard to see this through,” he said.

“We ask the supporters to come down and watch the games and give their support for our boys and the other teams as well to make this an enjoyable event for all.”

Team captain Xavier Pasese Tanielu said the squad is united and driven, with strong competition within the group lifting standards across the board.

“We’re prepared for the challenge ahead, both mentally and physically. The bond within this group is exceptional, and it really shows in our training sessions, the intensity, the focus, and the hunger to earn a place in the starting eleven. The players have been pushing each day, and the competition within the squad has raised our level. Beyond the pitch, they’ve also been working together and building trust, which is just as important,” Tanielu said.

“Motivation is high within the squad. There are many players in Samoa and overseas who are eager to represent the country in this tournament, and being selected is an honour none of us will take for granted. Representing Samoa comes with pride and responsibility. In addition, playing as the host nation gives us even more motivation. We are determined to give our full commitment and put in 100 per cent effort as we aim to successfully navigate the qualifier round of the OFC Champions League competition.” 

Vice captain Jerrymiah Maiava echoed those sentiments, describing his selection as an honour and a responsibility shaped by previous international experience.

“The team has prepared well through consistent training, focusing on fitness, tactical awareness, and team cohesion. We have worked hard on our defensive structure, communication, and understanding each other’s roles on the pitch. The mix of experienced players and younger talent had created a strong environment, and everyone is committed to pushing themselves to be ready for the challenge ahead,” he said.

The tournament kicks off on 31 January in Tuanaimato.