The Fiji U-16 team achieved their first victory at the OFC U-16 Women’s Championship by defeating the Cook Islands 2-0 in an important match held in Suva. Following a tough 3-3 draw against Tonga, Fiji entered this game with the resolve to win in order to maintain their semi-final aspirations.
Fiji took the lead in the 14th minute when Sisilia Kuladina scored with a remarkable shot from just outside the box, placing the ball in the bottom left corner and leaving Cook Islands’ goalkeeper Vahine Uini with no chance to react. Grace Lakavutu soon extended Fiji’s advantage, skillfully avoiding the offside trap and smoothly slotting the ball into the net, putting Fiji in a strong position by halftime.
Although they were behind, the Cook Islands put up a stronger fight in the second half, creating several opportunities that tested the young Fijian goalkeeper, who handled the challenges effectively. The match concluded with Fiji earning three points, placing them second in Group A.