In an exciting clash in Group A, Samoa set the early pace, prompting Fiji and Tonga to aim for a similarly strong start. Both teams struggled to find their rhythm initially.
However, the game began to take shape with the hosts making their mark. Fiji’s Uliana Vuniyayawa showed great composure in the midfield, seizing a loose ball and scoring past Tonga’s goalkeeper, Temaleti Taufa’ao, much to the delight of the home crowd.
Riding the momentum from the first goal, Fiji soon extended their lead. Sisilia Tuvou Kuladina, the youngest player from last month’s OFC Women’s Futsal Nations Cup, impressed again by scoring a stunning free kick from about 35 yards out in the 39th minute, making it 2-0 for Fiji.
Determined to swing the game back in their favor, Tonga came out stronger in the second half. Cienna Filimoeatu provided a crucial assist to Kuria Malohifo’ou, whose powerful shot found the net, reducing Fiji’s lead. Moments later, Tyra Bagiante displayed her skill by scoring the equalizer in the 47th minute, making it 2-2.
The quick turnaround seemed to shake Fiji’s confidence, and despite their attempts to take back control, they struggled to regain the lead. Tonga’s goalkeeper, Temaleti Taufa’ao, made a significant play, preventing a goal from Teonila Levuiciva after she received a pass from Kuladina.
In a tense moment, Bagiante nearly scored a winner in the 75th minute, but Melania Keresoni was quick to intervene. Fiji then appeared to have clinched the victory in the 78th minute when Grace Lakavutu scored, sparking jubilation among the Fijian players and coaching staff.
Yet, Tonga fought back resiliently and managed to equalize once again with a second goal from Malohifo’ou, bringing the final score to 3-3 and leaving both teams with a share of the points.