PNG Strengthens Ties with New Caledonia During Bilateral Talks

 The stage is set for a thrilling Pacific rivalry as the PNG Kumuls prepare to take on the Fiji Bati in Round 3 of the 2025 2025 Pacific Championships. The match will be held on Saturday 1 November 2025, with kickoff scheduled for 15:00 PNGST (Papua New Guinea Standard Time) at the Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby. 

Papua New Guinea head into the match with confidence after solid performances in their earlier fixtures. The Kumuls’ coaching staff have retained most of their previous side, signalling trust in the team’s growing chemistry. The inclusion of Dudley Dotoi and Valentine Richard adds depth to PNG’s attacking options, with captain Rhyse Martin once again leading from the front.

The Bati, meanwhile, have introduced a few key inclusions as they aim to bounce back in the competition. Captain Tui Kamikamica will once again lead from the front, supported by a powerful forward pack and a dynamic backline. With Fiji’s fresh inclusions, the Bati will look to disrupt PNG’s rhythm and use their expansive style to break through the defensive line.

PNG Kumuls Team List

1. Morea Morea

2. Dudley Dotoi

3. Zac Laybutt

4. Nene Macdonald

5. Alex Johnston

6. Gairo Voro

7. Lachlan Lam

8. Epel Kapinias

9. Edwin Ipape

10. Valentine Richard

11. Rhyse Martin (c)

12. Nixon Putt

13. Jack de Belin

14. Finley Glare

15. Robert Mathias

16. Cooper Bai

17. Sylvester Namo

18. Liam Horne

19. Robert Derby

20. Jacob Alick-Wiencke

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Fiji Bati Team List

1. Jahream Bula

2. Sunia Turuva

3. Jope Rauqe

4. Semi Valemei

5. Ronald Philitoga

6. Kurt Donoghoe

7. Brandon Wakeham

8. Tui Kamikamica (c)

9. Penioni Tagituimua

10. Michael Waqa

11. Taane Milne

12. Kitione Kautoga

13. Caleb Navale

14. Terrell Kalo Kalo

15. Solomone Saukuru

16. Ben Nakubuwai

17. Kylan Mafoa

18. Akuila Qoro

19. Keresi Maya

20. Gabriel Tunimakubu

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PNG Strengthens Ties with New Caledonia During Bilateral Talks