The Fiji Kulas achieved a significant victory in the OFC Women’s Nations Cup, winning 3-0 against Tonga at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva. With this win, Fiji now holds the lead in Group B, accumulating six points from two victories. The team is set to face Vanuatu on Saturday at 7 PM in their final group match.
The hosts were quick out of the gates, signaling their intent with two attempts on goal within the first ten minutes of the match. The opening goal came in the 29th minute when Cema Nasau showcased her aerial prowess by heading the ball into the net after leaping above a Tongan defender.
Narieta Leba impressed on the left flank, contributing significantly to Fiji’s offensive strategy, while goalkeeper Ka’iulani Scott made valuable saves to keep a clean sheet. In the 79th minute, Sereana Naweni extended Fiji’s lead by capitalizing on a beautiful pass from Adi Litia Bakaniceva within the box, skillfully beating the Tongan goalkeeper, Keira Wolfgram. Naweni, a rising star in the team, is the younger sister of former Drua and Flying Fijians fullback Ilaisa Droasese.
Elesi Tabunase sealed the match with a goal in added time, bringing the score to a commanding 3-0. Though Tonga managed some decent plays during the match, especially with contributions from their US-based players, they ultimately fell short. Tonga will look to rebound as they face Solomon Islands at 4 PM on Friday.
This victory reinforces Fiji’s strong performance in the tournament, offering hope for their upcoming matches as they look to continue their winning momentum and potentially secure a place in the knockout stages.
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