BILIKIKI HEAD TO TAHITI

Solomon Islands target strong campaign at OFC Beach Soccer Nations Cup and 2027 FIFA World Cup qualification

BY RICHARD MENANOPO

Solomon Islands’ national beach soccer team, Bilikiki, have departed for Tahiti yesterday, to represent the country at the OFC Beach Soccer Men’s Nations Cup 2026, with a place at the 2027 FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup among the major prizes at stake.

The Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) confirmed the team’s departure in a post on its official social media platform, calling on the nation to rally behind the team as it prepares for the regional competition.

“Fly high, play with passion, and bring it home, Bilikiki!” SIFF said, while encouraging supporters to share their best wishes, prayers and messages of encouragement for the national side.

The tournament will run from October 22 to 31 in Tahiti, with matches scheduled at Aorai Tini Hau in Papeete, according to the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC).

The Bilikiki will face four other teams in the competition, including hosts and defending champions Tahiti, New Caledonia, Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu.

Beyond the regional title, the teams will also be competing for qualification to the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup 2027, giving the tournament added significance for Solomon Islands.

The Bilikiki will be looking to improve on their performance at the previous edition hosted in Honiara in 2025, where Solomon Islands finished runners-up, according to Solomon Star.

Their return to Tahiti also presents a fresh challenge against some of the region’s strongest beach soccer nations, particularly the hosts, who have established themselves as a major force in the sport.

With the tournament approaching, the national side will now look to complete its preparations before the opening matches get underway.

Photo credit: SIFF Media

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