Komolong: Kapuls to build on next year after MSG Cup success

Papua New Guinea men's national team captain Alwin Komolong says the Kapuls have more to offer on the international stage after a successful outing in the Melanesian Spearhead Group [MSG] Cup.

Komolong led a mixed contingent, which comprised of senior players and rising talents, topping the MSG Cup title after defeating Vanuatu 2-1 on Saturday.

PNG had a solid campaign against rival countries, beating Solomon Islands development team 1-0, before drawing Fiji 1-1 and defeating the host's national side [3-2] and Vanuatu [2-1].

The PNG national football group had a seesawing season on the regional front, recently missing the opportunity in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers.

But skipper Komolong said the MSG Cup victory has restored some confidence in the Kapuls outfit.

"I think it gives confidence that there's something there. But again, if we're moving forward, we have to do the right things and be consistent in what we do in terms of our preparation and our selection," Komolong said when responding to question by NBC News.

"The level of our league needs to be strong. We need to look at players and continue to support the players. That's a big thing to support the players so that they are motivated to maintain their levels of high performance.

"As you know, the season is very short. At this level of football, you have to be on point all year round and be training and continuously being in a high-performance environment.

"I think the small details, the small one-percenters, are very important if you're trying to be successful.
"As much as we won this one, again, if we want to retain it next year, we've got to do the right things leading up to it."

The MSG Cup champions arrived home to a rousing reception at Jackson’s International Airport, with Komolong having the honors to lead the Men's National Team back to Port Moresby.

The Kapuls were welcomed by Papua New Guinea Football Association president John Kapi Natto, sports dignitaries and football fans and families.

Komolong said the MSG Cup event in Solomon Islands was tough, but PNG managed to retain the Cup, which was lost in 2023.

"We didn't really set any expectations as a group," the captain said.

"I know everyone wanted us to win the trophy, but we went in with a humble mindset coming off of a tough World Cup qualification campaign."

Meanwhile, Sports Minister Kinoka Feo revealed that the Kapuls have been rewarded with a K100,000 incentive from the national government for their victorious campaign in MSG Cup.

The money will be shared amongst the players and officials.