THE New Caledonian national team arrive on the Gold Coast this weekend to prepare for the two-match friendly series against Gold Coast United on Wednesday 17th and Saturday 20th August.
The two sides will do battle at Merrimac Soccer Club with both matches kicking off at 7.00pm.
Backed by one of Gold Coast United-s major sponsors Queensland Nickel (QN), the games will be tough outings for Miron Bleiberg-s men who are now ramping up their pre-season regime as the October start of the 2011/12 Hyundai A-League fast approaches.
In each of their previous two pre-season campaigns United have travelled to Noumea to face New Caledonia in a fixture that is fast becoming a tradition between the two teams, but this time the invitation was extended to host the island nation on Australian soil.
The latest FIFA rankings place New Caledonia at 164th in world and United-s Head Coach knows his side will be tested by the visitors who will be keen to impress during their visit and take home the Queensland Nickel Cup.
“In each of the last two years we have played them in Noumea and it has been very tough both times,” Bleiberg said.
“We know a bit more about them now of course because of our history of going over there, but there will still be some unknowns to us because naturally they will have some new players in their squad compared to last year.
“For anyone who is wondering what to expect, the best way I can put it is to say that the New Caledonia we played last season could certainly compete in the Hyundai A-League. They are a good side with good players who are quick and mobile.
“It is a good challenge for us and also an honour for us to play against a national team and host them here on the Gold Coast. We have become good friends with New Caledonia since Gold Coast United started and we are looking forward to these matches,” he added.
In 2009 Gold Coast ran out comfortable 5-0 winners in Noumea, but last season-s two-match series was a different story with a stronger New Caledonia earning a 3-2 victory in the first game, before United battled to a 1-0 win in the second encounter thanks to a solitary goal from young striker Golgol Mebrahtu.
