Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association Celebrates Historic Participation in Marshall Islands' Inaugural 11v11 International Football Match
The Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association (TCIFA) is proud to announce its participation in a groundbreaking event as the Marshall Islands host their first-ever international football match for the inaugural 11 aside Outrigger Cup. This historic encounter marks a significant milestone for both nations in the world of international football.
Scheduled to take place August 11-17th, 2025 in Springdale Arkansas, the match symbolizes a new chapter for Marshall Islands, showcasing their commitment to the global soccer community. The TCIFA, known for its dedication to promoting football across the Caribbean, is honored to be part of this momentous occasion.
What makes this a historic moment, you may ask? Did you know that there is only one nation on Earth that has never participated in international football? Indeed, the Marshall Islands is the last country without an international football team - until now! For too long, this small yet proud Pacific nation has been overlooked, remaining the sole country absent from the global soccer community. Historically, there has been a lack of funding and recognition for the world's most beloved sport in the Marshall Islands, resulting in no pitches, equipment, coaches, referees, and, most importantly, very few footballers even kicking a soccer ball. Over the past few years, they’ve dedicated themselves to changing this narrative.
For the Marshall Islands, football symbolizes hope and signifies a significant stride toward enhanced global inclusion. With the world's attention focused on them, they aim to demonstrate that no nation is too small or too remote to rightfully claim its place within the international football community.
Marshall Islands began their long epic journey to bring football to the Marshall Islands in 2020. And over the past 5 years they’ve worked tirelessly in the development of football in the Marshall Islands, from bringing much needed equipment to the islands to football being played in schools for the first time. They are now applying to join regional confederations, with the next step on their path to joining FIFA and, ultimately, competing in World Cup Qualifying matches.
"We are thrilled to support the Marshall Islands in their debut on the international soccer stage," said Sonia Fulford, President of TCIFA. "This event is a testament to the unifying power of sport and its ability to foster relationships and cultural exchange."
The matches will also highlight the Men’s National Team from the United States Virgin Islands. This event is poised to be an exhilarating display of skill and sportsmanship, further solidifying the bonds between the Turks and Caicos Islands and the Marshall Islands. Enthusiastic fans from all three nations are keenly anticipating this unique opportunity to witness history in the making.