In an exciting showdown in Group A, both Fiji and Tonga sought to emulate Samoa’s strong start in the day’s first match, as both teams worked hard to establish their rhythm.
Following an electrifying opening, the match settled into a competitive tone thanks to the host team. Forward Uliana Vuniyayawa, skillfully navigating through defenders, seized on a loose ball in midfield and scored, sending the crowd into a frenzy.
With Fiji eager to extend their lead, Sisilia Tuvou Kuladina, the youngest participant in last month’s OFC Women’s Futsal Nations Cup, delivered a remarkable goal in the 39th minute. Positioned approximately 35 yards from the goal, she executed a stunning free kick that soared past the Tongan goalkeeper.
Feeling bolstered by their first-half performance, Fiji faced a resurgent Tonga in the second half. Tonga started strong with a well-placed through ball from Cienna Filimoeatu to Kuria Malohifo’ou, whose powerful shot found the net, narrowing the scoring gap.
Just four minutes later, Tonga equalized when Tyra Bagiante, a persistent threat throughout the match, confidently slotted home after a breakaway run.
Losing their lead appeared to shake Fiji’s confidence, allowing Tonga to control more of the play although they struggled to convert this advantage into a goal. Tongan goalkeeper Temaleti Taufa’ao made a crucial save, thwarting a potential goal from Teonila Levuiciva after she received a precise through ball from Kuladina.
In the 75th minute, Bagiante surged forward seeking a winner, but was stopped in her tracks by Fiji’s goalkeeper, Melania Keresoni, who was alert to the danger.
Fiji appeared poised to clinch victory in the 78th minute when substitute Grace Lakavutu scored with a clever outside-of-the-boot finish, igniting jubilant celebrations among the Fijian bench.
However, Tonga was determined not to concede defeat. Malohifo’ou netted her second goal of the half, evening the score at 3-3 and sealing an exhilarating match filled with opportunities for both teams.