National squad to be announced

By PATRICIA KEAMO
PAPUA New Guinea Football Association (PNGFA) president John Kapi Natto says the national women’s squad will be announced this month.
He said similar to the men’s programme, the members of the women’s squad from the Northern and Southern Conferences would train for a best-of-three series before a final group was picked.
The revamped Women’s National Soccer League (WNSL) is aimed at preparing players to vie for 2023 World Cup qualification.
“You must believe in yourselves,” Kapi Natto told WNSL players.
“Stay disciplined and fit as the squad will be announced this month.
“We will have the Northern and Southern Conference teams ready for a best-of-three series, just like the men’s squad.
“We’re going to pick the best team and equip you.”
Kapi Natto urged players and supporters to “believe in the dream” that the national team could make it to the World Cup.
“If we don’t believe in the dream and support these young women to play, we will never get there,” he said.
“Nothing is impossible, I have faith.
“On behalf of PNGFA, Fifa and the Oceania Football Confederation, we’re going to do all our best to support our women on their road to the World Cup.”
Kapi Natto said Sports Minister Wesley Raminai had also pledged the Government’s support for the national team in their bid to reach the World Cup.