Koleta Likuculacula starred for Fiji, scoring two goals as they triumphed over Tahiti 2-1 in their inaugural match at the OFC Women’s Futsal Championship held in the Solomon Islands.
The match came alive towards the end of the first half, with Tahiti taking an early lead in the 15th minute through the persistent Remeha. Fiji quickly found their rhythm, as Likuculacula controlled the ball skillfully on the right side of the Tahiti box, switched to her left foot, and fired a shot past Tahiti goalkeeper Corail Harry to equalize.
Tahiti’s chances diminished when Ninauea Hioe received a second yellow card, leaving her team one player short for two minutes. Fiji seized the opportunity, and although they failed to capitalize during the power play, they ultimately secured the win with mere minutes to go.
Despite an impressive double save by goalkeeper Harry from a free-kick taken by Fiji’s Cema Nasau, she was left helpless against Likuculacula’s second goal, which clinched the victory for Fiji.