THE NMI U23 Men’s National Soccer Team is off to a rough start in the AFC U23 Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers, falling 14-0 to Australia in their debut match in Xi’an, China, on Wednesday.
Australia wasted no time, quickly asserting dominance as Nathanael Blair scored six minutes into the match. Blair led the attack up front, scoring four goals, including a first-half hat-trick, while the rest of the team contributed to build a commanding 10-0 lead by the hour mark.
NMI gave it their all to stop the bleeding, but unfortunately, fatigue set in as the match progressed. Applying constant offensive pressure, Australia added four more goals in the final stages, leaving NMI scoreless and securing their first win of the tournament, 14-0.
In a social media post, the Northern Mariana Islands Football Association stated:
“A tough result, but a valuable experience against one of the top teams in Asia. While the result was tough, our boys showed heart, discipline, and growth. Every minute on the field is a chance to learn, improve, and push forward.
“Coach Atsu emphasized the importance of experiences like this as we continue building for the future. The team now shifts focus to recovery and preparation for the next match on Sept. 6. Thank you for all the support — it means everything to the team. Let’s keep fighting together.”
The NMI U23 Men’s National Soccer Team members pose for a group photo during their training camp in Japan.
NMIFA photo
The NMI U23 Men’s Soccer Team members pose for a group photo before their match against Australia in the AFC U23 Asian Cup Qualifiers in China on Wednesday.
Asian Football Confederation photo
NMI’s Leland Deleon Guerrero intercepts the possession during the opening match against Australia in the AFC U23 Asian Cup Qualifiers in China on Wednesday.
Asian Football Confederation photo
