The Fiji U-16 team secured their first victory at the OFC U-16 Women’s Championship, defeating the Cook Islands 2-0 in an important match in Suva. Following a tough 3-3 draw against Tonga, Fiji entered the game with a strong desire to win in order to maintain their hopes of reaching the semi-finals.
Fiji took the lead in the 14th minute with a goal from Sisilia Kuladina, who continued her impressive form from the previous match. She capitalized on an opportunity just outside the penalty box, sending the ball into the bottom left corner of the net, leaving Cook Islands goalkeeper Vahine Uini unable to respond.
Grace Lakavutu extended Fiji’s lead shortly afterward, skillfully evading the offside trap and placing the ball into the net with precision. This secured a comfortable advantage for Fiji by halftime.
In the second half, although the Cook Islands fell behind, they demonstrated improved resilience, creating several opportunities that tested the young Fijian goalkeeper, who managed to keep them at bay.
The match concluded with Fiji earning three points, placing them second in Group A.