Lupe Ole Soaga and Madang FC are already in must-win territory going into tonight's penultimate group match in the OFC Champions League.
Samoan champions Lupe proved competitive in a 2-1 opening defeat by hosts AS Magenta in Noumea while Madang were overwhelmed 7-3 on their Oceania debut against AS Central Sport from Tahiti.
Lupe Ole Soaga celebrate a goal against AS Magenta. Photo: OFC / Alain Vartane
Lupe Ole Soaga coach Paul Ualesi said they have taken confidence from pushing one of the region's bigger clubs so close.
"I know we lost but the boys were relieved in their performance because Magenta was a big team here in New Caledonia," he said.
"I think they will underestimate our team but the boys were doing really well and we're not here to make up the numbers, we're here to come and to win the tournament as well.
"We will really try our best for our game, for our next opponent as well."
Lupe Ole Soaga coach Paul Ualesi. Photo: OFC / Alain Vartane
Paul Ualesi watched Madang's opening match and is expecting a difficult encounter.
"I saw the game [on Saturday]. Madang was hitting the first goal in the match but I think their careless mistakes cost their team," he said.
"But I think it's really tough opponents for us because I know theirs is the second team from PNG.
"We're going to take seriously for this game as well, we're going to try our very best to win this game."
Madang are making their OFC Champions League debut in 2017. Photo: OFC / Alain Vartane
Madang coach Francis Moyap said structure was an aspect where improvements can be made.
"I think in terms of what we can improve on in the future - our shape is a priority," he said.
"We will focus on getting back into our structure of play and we're looking forward to the next match.
"Samoa is a good team, they held New Caledonia to 2-1 so they will be a good challenge."
Only the top team from each group will advance to the knockout stage which means all three points are required for Lupe or Madang to have a realistic chance of progressing from Group A.
Magenta and Central Sport will clash in the later game at the Stade Numa Daly.
