Building on the first appearance
Samoa made their debut at a FIFA competition in 2025 and challenged France before losing 4-2. Chang Urrea recalled that the deficit remained one goal until stoppage time, an experience that strengthened belief. The return to the World Cup followed three unbeaten, clean-sheet group victories in Oceania qualifying and a 5-0 semi-final win over Solomon Islands. Returning players include central defender and captain Brenna Kitiona, giving the squad experience to pass on.
A personal connection with the United States
Thirteen squad members are based in the US. The assistant coach is from Minnesota, the goalkeeping coach is American, and Chang Urrea studied and worked with Colorado Rapids there. That makes the opener particularly meaningful for players, families and staff, although he stresses that every World Cup game matters equally. His approach encourages pursuing victory without fear rather than merely avoiding defeat. He also sees the team's example as a way to inspire girls in Samoa, a country of around 200,000 people. Collecting points remains the next objective, not an achievement already recorded. The interview's original publication date remains 13 October.