Fiji achieved a narrow 1-0 victory over Solomon Islands to secure 5th place in the OFC U-16 Women’s Championship 2024, thanks to an impressive free-kick by Sisilia Kuladina.
Both teams took to the field after being edged out of the semi-finals, resulting in a tightly contested match. Solomon Islands made a late adjustment to their lineup, with Bella Fa’arodo replacing Joyce Siosi.
The first half featured few scoring opportunities, highlighted by Solomon Islands striking the post from a corner kick and Fiji’s goalkeeper Miliana Maramanikabu being substituted after a head injury.
The second half saw Solomon Islands come close to scoring, but it was Kuladina who ultimately made the pivotal play, successfully converting a free-kick from just outside the penalty area.
Fiji maintained their lead to secure the win, while Solomon Islands struggled to find the back of the net.