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14 October 2026
Offseason Round-up Pt. 11

It's been yet another busy seven days of OFC Pro League news this week!

From teams ramping up their preparations for 2027, including confirming new players and coaches, to South Melbourne FC making football history in Australia - we're here to cover it all.


Hellas complete dream cup to lift Australia Cup

South Melbourne FC became the first non-A-League team to win the Australia Cup after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over city-rivals and four-time A-League champions Melbourne Victory.

Trailing 1-0 in extra-time, Max Mikkola scrambled in an equaliser with minutes remaining, before goalkeeper Javier López became the hero in the shootout - saving from Harry Sawyer before Jason Davidson fired the final kick over the bar to crown Hellas as champions.

Read more here

SMFC Cup Win
South Melbourne's history-makers lift the Australia Cup. Photo Credit: Football Australia.

Sinisa Cohadzic goes out on top

Having led South Melbourne FC to their Australia Cup success, the club announced that Head Coach Sinisa Cohadzic would be leaving his role after an incredibly successful 18 months in charge.

Cohadzic has been a key figure at South Melbourne for a number of years, with his achievements also including the Australian Championship and Dockerty Cup, as he leaves an impressive legacy at Hellas

Read more here.

Sinisa Cohadzic (2)
Sinisa Cohadzic bows out having made history with South Melbourne. Photo Credit: OFC Media via Phototek.

Clubs confirm returning stars

With the clock ticking before the 2027 season kicks off, teams have begun to confirm new signings, as well as returning talent, as they prepare for a fresh campaign.

Solomon Kings FC - who narrowly missed out on a semi-final place last season, have welcomed back a number of their key men for next year. 

Experienced goalkeeper Philip Mango will be back in 2027, joined by a core of 2026 regulars in Don Keana, Bobby Leslie, Raphael Le'ai, Clivert Sam, Junior David, David Supa, Gordon Iro, Javin Wae, Junior Petua and Fordney Junior.

PNG Hekari FC have also begun to lock down their 2027 squad, with reliable goalkeeper Dave Tomare announced to return for the new season.

Phillip Mango
Phillip Mango will be back between the sticks for Solomon Kings FC in 2027. Photo Credit: OFC Media via Phototek.

Faces new and old in the dugout

It's not just new and returning players to keep an eye out for as 2027 approaches.

Several new faces will be leading Pro League clubs in the upcoming season, with South Island United the latest to confirm their Head Coach in Englishman Scott Hales.

Hales has been a mainstay in New Zealand for many years, having built his career through roles with Central Football, New Zealand Football, the Wellington Phoenix academy, Miramar Rangers, Team Wellington and Western Springs.

Returning for 2027 is Solomon Kings FC Head Coach Ben Cahn.

Having impressed last season, despite narrowly missing out on a semi-final playoff spot, Cahn will have plenty to build upon as his side look to improve next season.

With the 2027 finals series being held in Honiara, there's certainly no lack of incentive for Cahn and his players, as they target Pro League glory on home soil.