Vanuatu’s Head Coach Richard Iwai has addressed recent criticism over the national men’s squad selection ahead of the MSG Prime Ministers’ Cup in Papua New Guinea.

“I accept it. I am from Vanuatu, but I make selection following what I see players playing in the Port Vila league. I know we should pick those in the islands, but I’m sorry, time is short. We do not have time to go round the islands and pick them. There are other arrangements for that, but it was not possible. So the president of VFF called me to take over this,” Iwai said.

The squad, finalized after last week’s friendly win over North Efate United FC (2-0), features 20 players, with 5 additional standby players. Coach Iwai emphasized that the team’s preparation continues with full training this month to ensure readiness for the MSG Cup.

“I want to thank all the teams that gave us friendly matches so it can prepare us to pick who to play and cut time short and training for the MSG Cups,” he added.

The MSG Prime Ministers’ Cup is scheduled from 10–22 November in Papua New Guinea, and Vanuatu is set to compete with its best possible squad despite tight preparation time.