By CHARLIE DUMAVI
AS Academy Feminine celebrated an undefeated run in the inaugural Oceania Football Confederation Women’s Champions League (OWCL), becoming the first team to lift the historic trophy in Port Moresby. Throughout the tournament, they only conceded one goal against the formidable Hekari United FC, securing a 2-1 victory in their opening match.
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ASAF’s remarkable performance on the field made them unstoppable. Winning the title not only signifies the rise of women’s football in the region but also serves as an inspiration for women footballers in New Caledonia, the home country of the 2023 OWCL champions.
Coached by Coralie Bretegnier, the ASAF team’s co-founder and sticker, Christelle Wahnawe, expressed her pride in playing and bringing the victory back to New Caledonia. She acknowledged that their level of competition in New Caledonia is low, but their triumph against other Pacific Island nations is a significant boost for the sport back home.
“This victory will inspire not only the club but also girls to start playing football, raising the level and motivating them to reach where we are today. We were determined to win, and we gave our all in this women’s championship,” Wahnawe added.
Despite being the only French-speaking team in the tournament, ASAF managed to gain followers and fans in Papua New Guinea (PNG). The team’s presence increased their fan base across the region.
ASAF concluded their campaign with 12 points, securing first place. Hekari finished second with 9 points and also received the Fair Play Team award, while Koloale earned 6 points. Kiwi FC went home winless but gained valuable experience to build upon.
Regarding individual awards, ASAF captain and central defender Edsy Matao received the Golden award, Marie Kaipu of Hekari United won the Golden Boot, and Koloale FC’s goalkeeper, Sylvester Maenu’u from the Solomon Islands, received the Golden Glove.
ASAF, along with the trophy, departed Port Moresby today and is en route to New Caledonia. Kiwi FC also left for Samoa today, and Koloale will return to the Solomon Islands, while Labasa FC is scheduled to depart from PNG on Tuesday.
