The Papua New Guinea Football Association (PNGFA) has named Filipe Vega-Arango, former head coach of the Solomon Islands Men’s National Football Team, as the new head coach of the Kapuls. The appointment comes after the PNGFA Executive Committee terminated the contract of former head coach Warren Moon due to non-compliance with directives.
PNGFA President John Kapi Natto disclosed the reasons for Moon's dismissal during a recent press conference. Kapi Natto explained that Moon’s refusal to relocate to Papua New Guinea and his preference to coach from Australia led to the decision. “We needed Warren to be present in Papua New Guinea to closely assess and work with the players, rather than just visiting periodically from Australia,” Kapi Natto stated.
PNGFA President John Kapi Natto disclosed the reasons for Moon's dismissal during a recent press conference. Kapi Natto explained that Moon’s refusal to relocate to Papua New Guinea and his preference to coach from Australia led to the decision. “We needed Warren to be present in Papua New Guinea to closely assess and work with the players, rather than just visiting periodically from Australia,” Kapi Natto stated.
Kapi Natto further emphasized that the PNGFA seeks a long-term commitment from a coach who can reside in the country and engage fully with the team. Vega-Arango, a Spaniard, will not only lead the PNG Men’s National Football Team but also assist in enhancing the technical department. His previous tenure with the Solomon Islands saw a significant improvement in their FIFA ranking, elevating the team from 177/178 to 130.
“We were impressed by his success with the Solomon Islands, where he developed one of the best national teams in their history,” Kapi Natto remarked. “Given his familiarity with the region’s culture, we believe he is the ideal candidate to establish a comprehensive technical strategy for our team.”
Kapi Natto reassured that the PNGFA operates under a structured governance model, akin to any business organization, with decisions made by a Board to advance the sport in the country.
Vega-Arango is scheduled to arrive in Papua New Guinea next week and will begin preparations for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers for the Oceania Zone.
Also read
“We were impressed by his success with the Solomon Islands, where he developed one of the best national teams in their history,” Kapi Natto remarked. “Given his familiarity with the region’s culture, we believe he is the ideal candidate to establish a comprehensive technical strategy for our team.”
Kapi Natto reassured that the PNGFA operates under a structured governance model, akin to any business organization, with decisions made by a Board to advance the sport in the country.
Vega-Arango is scheduled to arrive in Papua New Guinea next week and will begin preparations for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers for the Oceania Zone.
Also read