The Fiji U-16 team achieved their first victory in the OFC U-16 Women’s Championship, defeating the Cook Islands 2-0 in an important match held in Suva. Following a tough 3-3 draw against Tonga, Fiji entered the match with a strong determination to secure a win and keep their semi-final aspirations alive.
Fiji took the lead in the 14th minute, thanks to Sisilia Kuladina, who continued her impressive form from the prior game with another remarkable goal. She capitalized on an opportunity just outside the penalty area, directing the ball into the bottom left corner and leaving Cook Islands goalkeeper Vahine Uini with no chance to intervene.
Shortly after, Grace Lakavutu extended Fiji’s advantage, skillfully avoiding the offside trap to slot the ball into the net. This solidified Fiji’s comfortable lead by halftime.
In the second half, the Cook Islands demonstrated a greater sense of resilience, creating multiple challenges for the young Fijian goalkeeper, who managed to meet the demands effectively. The match concluded with Fiji earning three points, placing them second in Group A.