The Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) Academy received financial support for the Kossa Football Club who will play in the finals of the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) championship league.

In a handover yesterday at the SIFF Academy, the Taiwanese Ambassador, H.E. George Chan said the SBD$268,000 funding is to support the club to compete against Tafea FC of Vanuatu and Ba FC.

"I have learnt that it was unprecedented history as KOSSA FC will be the first Solomon Islands club to play in the finals of the Oceania Football confederation (OFC) championship league," said Ambassador Chan.

Winner of these matches will represent the OFC in the FIFA world club championship in Tokyo in December 2008.

Ambassador Chan encouraged all Kossa FC players to stand together to "overcome all odds".

"Together you can overcome all odds. Together you can achieve your goal. Never give up. Be persistent at the last minute of each competition. Then you will enjoy the fruit of success," he said.

Ambassador Chan said that whilst Taiwan has been actively involved in agriculture, education, transportation and rural development in the Solomons, they are also focusing in cultural and sports events.

The Taiwanese Ambassador added that the release of donation was under the Prime Minister's request.

"Taiwan ... realizes that football as the number one national sports can unite the country and help fly the Solomons flag abroad, both regionally and internationally," Ambassador Chan said.

"Although short notice, we are proud to have responded positively in funding the Kossa FC, which demonstrates Taiwan as a friend whom Solomon Islands can rely on."

The Taiwanese Ambassador reminded the boys that "your hard work can create history, and hope to see Solomon Islands fly its flag in Tokyo December 2008".