Fiji triumphed with a 1-0 win over Solomon Islands to secure fifth place in the OFC U-16 Women’s Championship 2024, courtesy of a remarkable free-kick by Sisilia Kuladina.
Both teams approached the match eager to recover from their close defeats in the semi-finals, resulting in a competitive match. Solomon Islands made a last-minute adjustment to their lineup, with Bella Fa’arodo taking the place of Joyce Siosi.
In the first half, both sides had limited opportunities, although Solomon Islands came close to scoring when they hit the woodwork from a corner kick. Fiji’s goalkeeper Miliana Maramanikabu had to be substituted due to a head injury.
The second half saw Solomon Islands push for a goal, but it was Kuladina who ultimately broke the deadlock, scoring from a free-kick just outside the penalty area. Fiji maintained their lead, while Solomon Islands failed to equalize.