Papua New Guinea (PNG) proudly welcomed home its national sporting heroes following an inspiring campaign at the 2025 Palau Pacific Mini Games, with PNG Olympic Committee President Emma Waiwai leading a spirited celebration of their efforts and achievements. In a heartfelt address during a formal Team PNG welcome ceremony, President Waiwai praised the athletes, coaches, and support teams for their outstanding performance, which she said left a deep-rooted mark on PNG's sporting history, as the country celebrates its 50th year of independence. Team PNG participated in 9 of the 14 sports contested in Palau and returned home with an impressive 77 medals — 22 Gold, 29 Silver, and 26 Bronze. Athletics proved to be PNG’s dominant discipline, accounting for 65% of the medal haul with 50 medals, followed by Weightlifting with 14 medals, contributing 18% of the total. “This success represents more than medals,” Waiwai said. “It represents grit, dedication, and the unyielding belief that our potential as a nation is limitless.” Among the standout performers was Daniel Baul, who secured four gold medals — in the 400m hurdles, 4x100m relay, 4x400m relay, and the inaugural 4x100m mixed relay — and a silver in the 400m sprint. Waiwai also extended special recognition to PNG’s para-athletes, who played a vital role in the Athletics medal count. While celebrating the nation's successes, Waiwai acknowledged the competitiveness of the regional sporting landscape, noting that Tahiti topped the medal table with 142 medals, followed by Fiji (81) and Samoa (61). She emphasized the need for PNG to “stay clear-eyed” about the road ahead, calling for deeper investment in high-performance training, grassroots development, and improved local sporting infrastructure. Waiwai spotlighted the National Sports Institute (NSI) as a cornerstone of PNG’s athletic development. “NSI has a proven track record of producing champions. We must invest in and build it up further,” she said. She also raised strategic questions about how to retain and improve upon the nation’s standing ahead of the 2027 Pacific Games in Tahiti, urging National Federations to plan beyond 2025 by converting silvers and bronzes into gold and supporting athletes through stronger domestic competitions and regional tournaments. The success of Team PNG was made possible through the backing of government and corporate partners. Waiwai extended gratitude to the PNG Government for its approved K4.1 million in funding and paid tribute to the “Team PNG family” of 14 corporate sponsors — including Trukai Industries, SP Brewery, Air Niugini, ExxonMobil PNG, Vodafone PNG, and others — for their unwavering support. “These partnerships are a powerful endorsement of the value of sport,” she said, urging even greater collaboration across government, business, and sporting bodies. As PNG reflects on half a century of independence, Waiwai emphasized the transformative role of sport in uniting the nation’s diverse communities and inspiring youth. “Every sprint, every leap, every record set is a chapter in the extraordinary story of Papua New Guinea. Sport is not just about medals — it is about hope, identity, and national pride.” In closing, Waiwai called for renewed national commitment to high-performance sport and challenged the country to rise to the next level. “Let us stride, paddle, leap, lead, and run confidently into the future,” she declared. “Together, we have the power to elevate Papua New Guinea to unprecedented levels of excellence.”

A final-year student from Sonoma Adventist College has commended Minister for Rural and Economic Development, Joseph Lelang, for his long-standing sponsorship scheme, saying it has provided life-changing support for students from remote communities. Bradley Kaumu, originally from Kove District in West New Britain Province, is completing his Diploma in Accounting and Management and currently serves as President of the School of Business at Sonoma. He credited the Minister’s scholarship initiative for easing the financial burdens faced by many rural students and giving them a chance to succeed. “The scholarship helped us a lot,” Kaumu said in a recent interview. “Most of our parents are subsistence farmers, earning very little — sometimes less than K500 a fortnight. Without this scheme, many of us wouldn’t have made it this far.” Kaumu recounted his struggles after failing to progress beyond Grade 10 in his home province, eventually relocating to East New Britain to finish secondary school at Kambubu Adventist Secondary. His breakthrough came when he was accepted into Sonoma Adventist College — and joined the Kandrian District sponsorship scheme in 2023. “The Minister’s support gave me hope,” he said. “We can focus on our studies without the fear of being suspended for not paying fees. That peace of mind makes a huge difference.” Minister Lelang, who recently spoke at a Department of Implementation and Rural Development event, emphasized his commitment to investing in young people. “I believe our children are the future,” he said. “That’s why I introduced this scholarship scheme back in 2013. It supports students from very remote areas by covering 100% of tuition fees, while parents contribute to travel, pocket money, and book allowances.” The scheme has helped more than 5,000 students since its inception, and the Minister reaffirmed that human capital development must go hand in hand with infrastructure investment. Kaumu called on citizens to back leaders who prioritize education. “This is the kind of leader we need,” he said. “Someone who invests in human resources. If we continue to support leaders like him, more young people will be empowered to help build this country.” As he prepares to graduate at the end of 2025, Kaumu says his goal is to return home and contribute meaningfully to the development of West New Britain.

Ten students from Sonoma Adventist College have successfully completed a four-week internship with the Department of Implementation and Rural Development (DIRD), gaining hands-on experience in government operations, project implementation, and financial accountability. The internship, part of DIRD’s commitment to nurturing future public servants, offered the students practical exposure to how the District Services Improvement Program (DSIP) is administered and reported at the national level. At a farewell ceremony held at the DIRD headquarters, Acting Secretary Mr. Aihi Vaki commended the students for their commitment and professionalism. “Your eagerness and strong work ethic have helped expose you to the broader responsibilities of the public service,” Mr. Vaki said. “You’ve seen how DSIP funding is managed, acquitted, and documented to ensure transparency and accountability.” During their internship, the students were attached to several key divisions including the DSIP Division, Southern Region, and Program Implementation sections. They contributed to processing over 205 acquittal books from districts across the Highlands, Southern, and Momase regions — work that directly supports government planning and reporting processes. Deputy Secretary for the Program and Implementation Wing, Mr. Gordon Wafimbi, acknowledged the tangible impact of the trainees' work. “The work you’ve done goes beyond learning — it has directly supported our operations. These records are vital to our transparency efforts and overall program delivery,” he said. Minister for Rural and Economic Development and Member for Kandrian-Gloucester, Hon. Joseph Lelang, also congratulated the students. He expressed pride in one of the interns, Bradley Kaumu, a recipient of his district’s scholarship scheme. The program has supported over 5,000 students since its launch in 2013. “It gives me great pride to see students we have sponsored now contributing within government agencies like DIRD,” the Minister said. “This is proof that investing in education and training opens doors. It’s not just about paying school fees — it’s about building the nation’s human capital.” A student representative, Shane Gadebo, delivered a vote of thanks on behalf of the group, describing the internship as both inspiring and transformative. “We’ve learned about accountability, transparency, and what it means to serve the people with honesty,” he said. “This experience has built our confidence and deepened our understanding of how government really works.” DIRD expressed its intention to continue expanding its collaboration with higher education institutions like Sonoma College, aiming to equip more young Papua New Guineans with practical public service experience.

In a show of enduring partnership and solidarity, Japan’s Ambassador to Papua New Guinea, His Excellency (H.E.) Hisanobu Mochizuki, visited Enga Province last week to observe the progress of recovery and development efforts supported by the Government of Japan and UNICEF. The visit comes as Papua New Guinea celebrates its 50th anniversary of independence, marking five decades of cooperation between Japan, UNICEF, and the PNG Government in improving outcomes for children in areas such as health, education, water and sanitation (WASH), and emergency response. Ambassador Mochizuki was joined by UNICEF Representative Dr. Veera Mendonca in touring communities affected by the devastating Mulitaka landslide of May 2024, which claimed lives and displaced thousands, including nearly 4,000 children. During meetings with Enga Governor Sir Peter Ipatas and provincial health leaders, Ambassador Mochizuki discussed how Japan’s humanitarian aid—delivered swiftly through UNICEF—has been instrumental in both immediate relief and longer-term resilience-building. Japan’s contribution enabled the rapid delivery of emergency supplies, including over 1,100 tarpaulins, 1,500 blankets, 500 solar lanterns, 2,000 water containers, and more than 100 hygiene kits tailored for women and children. The establishment of Child-Friendly Spaces provided psychosocial support and a sense of safety for children amid the crisis.   At Mulitaka Health Centre, the Ambassador viewed a new solar-powered water system funded through the partnership, which now ensures reliable and clean water access for patients and surrounding communities. Local schools, many of which were damaged or disrupted by the disaster, have since resumed operations with improved facilities including rainwater tanks, clean toilets, and hygiene programs. Enga Provincial Health Authority CEO Dr. Vincent Pyakalyia praised the partnership’s focus on climate-resilient WASH infrastructure, while Director of Public Health Dr. Betty Koka noted the quick and impactful restoration of essential services. “Thanks to the support from Japan and UNICEF, we’ve been able to restore critical services and begin building back stronger,” said Dr. Koka. At the provincial vaccine store in Wabag, the Ambassador also examined Japan-supported efforts to strengthen PNG’s cold chain system for vaccines. Upgrades include solar-powered storage, the mSupply digital tracking system, and mobile vaccine carriers, helping address the nation’s low immunization coverage, currently at just 47 per cent. Reflecting on the visit, Ambassador Mochizuki said: “It has been a privilege to witness the positive impact of our cooperation with UNICEF and the Government of Papua New Guinea. Japan remains committed to supporting the people of Enga and improving access to essential services, especially for the most vulnerable children.” Governor Ipatas expressed deep appreciation for Japan’s continued support: “This partnership has helped transform tragedy into meaningful progress for our communities.” UNICEF Representative Dr. Veera Mendonca underscored the significance of the long-standing collaboration. “For decades, Japan has stood beside UNICEF and the Government of Papua New Guinea to support child survival, learning and protection,” she said. “In PNG’s jubilee year, this sustained, values-driven partnership is more meaningful than ever.” She added that with children and young people making up over half of PNG’s population, investment in their health, education and protection is crucial for national development. “Partnerships like the one we have with Japan are not short-term solutions. They are long-term investments in systems, communities, and in giving every child in PNG the best possible start in life,” she said.

The Papua New Guinea Accident Investigation Commission (AIC) has launched an investigation into an aviation accident involving a Cessna 208B Grand Caravan aircraft, operated by Tropicair Limited, which sustained substantial damage during landing at Balimo Airstrip in Western province recently. The aircraft, registered P2-AMH, was on a charter flight from Port Moresby’s Jacksons International Airport to Balimo when it experienced an abnormal runway contact during touchdown at approximately 14:15 local time. According to initial reports, there were nine people on board — one pilot and eight passengers. No injuries have been reported. Tropicair Limited formally notified the AIC of the occurrence via email at 14:53. Preliminary assessments by the AIC indicate that the aircraft suffered significant damage to the nose landing gear, right main landing gear, and propeller blades. Minor damage was also observed at the rear section of the empennage. The Commission has classified the occurrence as an accident under the standards of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Annex 13. A team of AIC investigators will be deployed to the site today to commence an on-site investigation. The scope of the investigation will cover aircraft and pilot performance, airstrip conditions, prevailing weather, aircraft maintenance and serviceability, organizational factors, and regulatory oversight. The AIC emphasized that its investigations are conducted independently and with the sole aim of improving aviation safety by identifying contributing factors and preventing future occurrences.

Prime Minister James Marape has reaffirmed Papua New Guinea’s commitment to economic reform and fiscal sustainability, presenting an ambitious plan to achieve a debt-free economy by 2033 during a high-level meeting with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in Washington, D.C. Meeting with IMF Deputy Managing Director Bo Li, Prime Minister Marape highlighted PNG’s economic resilience amid a slowing global outlook. While the IMF projects a decline in global and regional growth—down to 2.8% globally and 3.9% for Asia-Pacific in 2025—Papua New Guinea’s economy is forecast to strengthen, rising from 3.8% in 2024 to 4.7% in 2025. “This growth sets PNG apart during a time of global uncertainty,” Marape said. “It confirms the effectiveness of our fiscal and economic reforms.” The IMF commended PNG’s progress on fiscal consolidation and its strategy to broaden the economy beyond the resource sector. Marape outlined the Government’s focus on boosting agriculture, fisheries, forestry, and tourism to build a more sustainable economic base. He confirmed that PNG remains on track to deliver a balanced budget by 2027, after which a targeted debt-reduction program will be implemented. “From 2027 onwards, we will cease all new borrowing and redirect our fiscal space to reducing existing debt,” the Prime Minister stated. “Our aim is to be debt-free by 2033 and, by 2045, a net contributor to the IMF.” Marape also provided updates on major investment discussions with global energy and mining companies including ExxonMobil and Newmont. Strategic projects such as Papua LNG, Wafi-Golpu, and P’nyang are expected to drive between US$40 billion and US$55 billion in foreign direct investment over the next ten years. “These projects are key to reaching our K200 billion economic target,” he said. “They will support national development and service delivery as our population continues to grow.” Concluding the meeting, Prime Minister Marape underscored the Government’s determination to see through its long-term economic agenda. “This is not rhetoric—this is a practical, measurable plan,” he said. “A debt-free Papua New Guinea by 2033 is the legacy we are working to secure.”

A new chapter in international friendship was written this week as the Village of Poplar, Wisconsin, and the City of Madang in Papua New Guinea, officially signed a sister city agreement. The partnership, founded on shared World War II history, aims to foster long-term cultural, educational, and community exchange. The agreement was signed by Poplar Village Board Member Kory Gilderman and Madang Provincial Administrator Daniel Aloi during a formal ceremony in Madang. It sets the stage for a broad collaboration between the two communities, including student exchanges, cultural programs, and veteran-led initiatives. “This agreement is a way to recognize the history we share and to build something new from it,” said Gilderman. “We’re excited to learn from each other, build connections between our schools and residents, and honor the legacy of Major Bong and the many Papua New Guineans who supported Allied forces during the war.” The connection between Poplar and Madang dates back to World War II through Poplar native Major Richard Bong, the United States' top fighter ace. Bong flew dozens of missions over Papua New Guinea, including operations near Madang. Interest in rekindling ties grew after a 2024 expedition funded by the Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center and the nonprofit Pacific Wrecks located Bong’s P-38 Lightning aircraft—nicknamed Marge—which crash-landed in the jungle near Madang in 1944. Gilderman’s own grandfather, Robert G. Brown, served in Madang during the war, helping to construct the same airstrips used by Major Bong. These personal and historical ties have added depth to the sister city relationship. During their visit, the Poplar delegation toured local schools—including Divine Word University—and participated in cultural activities. The visit highlighted mutual interest in learning and cooperation between the people of northern Wisconsin and Papua New Guinea. “This represents a unique moment in our history of sister city relationships,” said Aloi. “We are at the authentic beginning of this journey. We thank our friends in Poplar for this opportunity to build a foundation for our community’s progress.” The Poplar-Madang agreement is part of a broader U.S. initiative to build people-to-people connections in the Pacific. On Friday, July 11th, a separate sister city agreement will be signed between Long Beach, California, and Papua New Guinea’s capital, Port Moresby. Both delegations are supported by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. “Today we witness an intersection of friendship through a shared history,” said Carlo Capua, Board Chair of Sister Cities International. “What started as an accident during a world war has resulted in a foundation for peace.” The agreements are part of the “7 for 70” initiative launched in 2023, which seeks to establish seven U.S.-Pacific Island sister city partnerships by 2026 in celebration of Sister Cities International’s 70th anniversary. The effort also coincides with Papua New Guinea’s upcoming 50th anniversary of independence in 2025, making these partnerships especially meaningful.

The PNG Hunters have confirmed that centre Elijah Roltinga will miss the remainder of the 2025 season after suffering a broken leg. The injury occurred during the warm-up ahead of the team’s Round 16 match against the Mendi Blackhawks. Roltinga was injured prior to kick-off in what the club has described as an “unfortunate and unexpected incident.” He was immediately airlifted to Pacific International Hospital in Port Moresby, where he was admitted overnight and underwent surgery the following morning. Club officials reported that the procedure was successful and that Roltinga has now entered the recovery phase. “Elijah is now beginning a comprehensive rehabilitation program and will receive the highest standard of medical care available in Papua New Guinea,” the club stated. Roltinga, a key figure in the Hunters’ lineup, is expected to be sidelined for the rest of the year. His absence will be felt both on and off the field. The PNG Hunters extended their support to Roltinga and his family, expressing hope for a full and speedy recovery. The club also confirmed that updates on his rehabilitation progress will be provided in due course.

Prime Minister James Marape held high-level talks with senior executives of ExxonMobil Corporation in Houston today, aiming to accelerate Papua New Guinea’s next wave of liquefied natural gas (LNG) development. The meeting, held at ExxonMobil’s global headquarters, focused on three major projects: Papua LNG, P’nyang LNG, and the Wildebeest gas field. These developments are seen as vital to PNG’s long-term economic growth, investment flow, and job creation. Prime Minister Marape described the discussions as “substantive, productive, and forward-looking,” and welcomed ExxonMobil’s continued commitment to PNG’s energy sector. “I’m pleased to confirm that ExxonMobil has reaffirmed its support for the development of Papua LNG, P’nyang LNG, and Wildebeest,” Marape said. “These projects remain strategically important and will be rolled out in a carefully sequenced manner over the next 10 to 15 years.” The Prime Minister was joined by Petroleum Minister Jimmy Maladina, Mining Minister Rainbo Paita, State Solicitor Daniel Rolpagarea, MRDC Managing Director Augustine Mano, and State Negotiating Team Chairman Dairi Vele. ExxonMobil’s delegation included Chairman and CEO Darren Woods, Upstream Oil and Gas President Dan Ammann, Global LNG Senior Vice President Peter Clarke, and ExxonMobil PNG Managing Director Dinesh Sivasamboo. The talks also addressed recent cost pressures facing the Papua LNG project, where TotalEnergies serves as the lead operator. Marape confirmed that all joint venture partners — ExxonMobil, TotalEnergies, and Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited — remain committed to a collaborative solution. A joint stakeholder meeting is being scheduled to resolve the cost issues and move toward a Final Investment Decision (FID) for the Papua LNG project. ExxonMobil also expressed strong interest in advancing the Wildebeest gas field, which is still in its exploration phase. Deep-well exploratory drilling is ongoing, and the company signaled its willingness to partner with the PNG Government on its development potential. “We have clearly stated our preference: Papua LNG first, then P’nyang LNG, followed by Wildebeest,” Marape said. “This sequencing allows for continuity in construction and investment, helping sustain momentum in the industry and ensuring benefits reach our people consistently over the next decade.” In a notable moment during the visit, the Prime Minister was informed that more than six Papua New Guineans are now working at ExxonMobil’s Houston headquarters — a result, he said, of long-term investments in local talent. “As Education Minister in 2008–2009, I supported training programs to prepare our people for roles in the LNG sector,” Marape said. “Seeing our nationals contributing globally at a company like ExxonMobil shows what’s possible when we invest in our human capital.” He thanked ExxonMobil for continuing to empower Papua New Guinean professionals and encouraged the company to expand global opportunities for local talent. Following the Houston engagement, Prime Minister Marape will depart overnight for Washington, D.C., where he will continue his official mission with a two-day program of meetings. These include talks with senior U.S. Government officials and executives from Newmont Corporation, as part of broader efforts to strengthen bilateral ties and attract responsible investment to PNG’s resource sector. Marape concluded the Houston leg of his tour by reaffirming the government’s support for responsible resource development. “Our gas projects must deliver lasting benefits for our people,” he said. “With trusted partners like ExxonMobil and TotalEnergies, we are confident these investments will drive the transformation our nation needs as we look toward our next 50 years.”

The Gulf Provincial Administration has committed K80, 000 to support the establishment of the Toare Cultural Centre, a ground-breaking cultural preservation initiative led by UNESCO in partnership with the National Cultural Commission (NCC) and the provincial government. The cheque was officially handed over during a ceremony at the NCC Head Office in Port Moresby. Attending the event were NCC Executive Director Mr. Steven Enomb Kilanda, Gulf Provincial Administrator Mr. Clement Tare, Culture and Tourism Manager Mr. Oscar Evare, Gulf Music and Culture Association Chairman Mr. Alex Anthony, as well as the NCC staff. Despite its proximity to the capital and its rich cultural heritage, Gulf Province has seen limited provincial support for cultural development in the past. This latest move marks a turning point, with the Gulf government being the first to formally partner with NCC on a community-driven cultural initiative. NCC Executive Director Mr. Kilanda expressed gratitude to the Gulf leadership and called on other provinces to follow suit. “Culture doesn’t live in Port Moresby; it lives in our communities.” “We need provincial governments, as cultural custodians, to work with us in delivering services that preserve our traditions and reduce social issues.” Kilanda emphasized that cultural projects like the Toare Centre not only protect heritage but also engage communities, especially youth, in meaningful activities that help reduce law and order problems. Mr. Tare echoed this sentiment, warning that youth disengagement is a growing issue in PNG. “Our youth are a time bomb. We must involve them in cultural and tourism activities to keep them engaged, skilled, and connected to their roots.” He also urged the NCC to go beyond hosting cultural events and to incorporate skills training into its programs to empower young people and build capacity at the community level. "This collaboration is the first of its kind in Papua New Guinea, uniting an international body, a national agency, and a provincial government, to build a cultural center aimed at preserving traditions that risk fading away."

Palau's Ministry of Health (MOH) has warned athletes and officials at the 2025 Pacific Mini Games to be cautious after a dengue fever case was reported on Friday, with an athlete admitted to the national hospital. The Mini Games Organising Committee said all safeguarding protocols for the athlete, teams, visitors and people of Palau have been activated. The Health Ministry is asking everyone to protect themselves as much as possible from mosquito bites. "One case of dengue fever has been detected amongst the athletes," the MOH statement said. "The case was detected through our enhanced health surveillance system, which is conducted daily to ensure early detection and rapid response to potential outbreaks. "The affected person is currently under medical care." But despite the setback, the competition continued in the different sports Saturday. Medal standings Tahiti continues to lead the medal standings, with Samoa getting closer in second, following some impressive golden performances. Sunday was initially marked as a rest day but baseball teams will be competing, as organisers work on catching up with the schedule, following two days of competition being washed out on Monday and Tuesday. The features of day six were the 100-metre finals in both the men's and women's categories. Australia won the women's 100m final, with Kayedel Smith claiming first place ahead of Papua New Guinea's Isila Apkup and Fiji's Sera Nasilivata. Smith stopped the stop watch at the 12.16 seconds mark, with Apkup winning silver in a time of 12.17s, while Nasilivata took the bronze home, completing the race in 12.20s. The men's final saw Papua New Guinea's Pasil Wasil storming home to take the gold in a time of 10.51 seconds, ahead of teammate Tovetuna Tuna, who finished 0.02 seconds later than Wasil to claim silver. Fijian Waisake Tewa took the bronze medal. New Zealand-Tongan David Liti took three gold medals in the men's 110-kilogram weightlifting, with a total lift of 335kg. Fijian Reki Roberts proved to be the best heptathlon athlete, amassing a total of 4,250 points to win the gold. Raylyne Kanam of PNG won silver with 3,816 points while Tonga's Manatu Hafoka finished with the bronze. Her teammate Waisele Inoke claimed the top prize in the men's octathlon, totalling 5,336 points. Competition will take a break on Sunday, resuming on Monday with judo getting into action. At the end of day six (Saturday), Tahiti had totalled 53 gold, 32 silver and 18 bronze medals. Samoa has 27 gold medals to its name in second place on the medal tally, while Fiji is third ahead of Australia, with more silver medals won, atlhough both nations have 18 gold medals each. Fiji have 24 silver compared to Australia's eight silver so far. Papua New Guinea, who topped the medal tally at the 2022 Mini Games in Saipan, are currently sitting in fifth position with 11 gold, 17 silver and 16 bronze. Weightlifting competition has ended, along with table tennis, va'a, archery, swimming and wrestling. The closing ceremony is scheduled for 9 June. [caption id="" align="alignnone" width="1050"] 2025 Pacific Mini Games medal tally at the end of day six of competitions on 5 July 2025. Photo: RNZ Pacific[/caption] Source: rnz.co.nz

Papua New Guinea began their OFC Women’s Nations Cup 2025 campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 win over Samoa, thanks to a first-half brace from star striker Marie Kaipu. Despite a late push by the Samoan side, led by the Salanoa sisters, the defending champions held on to secure three points in Group A. The match, played in front of a vibrant crowd, showcased two rising forces in women’s football. Papua New Guinea, boasting several players from the OFC Women’s Champions League finalists Hekari Women’s FC, faced a youthful and determined Samoa squad, whose U-17 side is preparing for the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup™ in Morocco later this year. From the opening whistle, PNG’s talisman Marie Kaipu was central to the action. After an early challenge from Samoa captain Alisa Tuatagaloa left her briefly sidelined for treatment, Kaipu returned with renewed intent. She nearly opened the scoring in the 17th minute, narrowly missing the target after a quick burst down the right wing. Moments later, her persistence paid off. Capitalizing on a loose ball, Kaipu initiated a swift one-two before outrunning Tuatagaloa, rounding goalkeeper Kamy Anaya, and calmly slotting home to give PNG a 1-0 lead. PNG nearly doubled their advantage shortly after through Keren Kalapai, whose strike rattled the upright. Captain and 2022 Golden Boot winner Ramona Padio also came close in the 26th minute and later had a goal disallowed after setting up Kaipu, who finished well but was flagged offside. Samoa responded with resilience. Oteta Kitiona surged forward on the wing, testing PNG’s backline, while a low cross from Xevani Salanoa almost found the equaliser before the break. However, it was Kaipu again who struck before halftime. Set up by Michaelyne Butubu, she shrugged off her marker and curled a clinical finish past Anaya in the 40th minute to make it 2-0. She nearly completed a first-half hat trick just before the whistle, unselfishly laying off to Butubu, whose shot was tipped onto the crossbar by Anaya. The second half saw Samoa regroup and find momentum, particularly through the impact of the Salanoa sisters. Goalkeeper Xeyana Salanoa entered the match at the restart and played a key role in keeping PNG at bay with a series of vital saves. Samoa’s growing confidence paid off late in the game when Xevani Salanoa looped a well-placed header over PNG goalkeeper Lavina Hola, cutting the deficit to 2-1 and raising hopes of a comeback. With renewed urgency, Samoa pushed forward in the final minutes, but PNG’s defence held strong. A brilliant one-handed save by Xeyana Salanoa in the dying moments denied PNG a third goal and kept Samoa within touching distance until the final whistle. Despite the loss, Samoa impressed with their tenacity and tactical discipline. For PNG, the victory reinforces their title credentials, while also highlighting areas for improvement ahead of their next group match.