The Digicel Fiji Junior Kulas are set to face Tonga today in their opening match of the Oceania Federation Confederation Under-16 Women’s Championship at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva. Coach Marika Rodu has dedicated months of preparation to ensure the team is ready for this important competition.
Sunil Kumar, head of talent development for Fiji Football, expressed confidence in the team’s preparedness, noting they are equipped to take on some of the strongest teams in the Pacific. “The girls are fit, ready, and eager for the challenge ahead. The team has worked hard to be in top form for the championship,” Kumar stated. He encouraged the team, saying, “All the best to you girls; we have full faith in you. Let’s create history together. The boys have already made history by being the first team to qualify for the FIFA Under-17 World Cup in Qatar, and the girls can achieve this too.”
To bolster their squad, three players from the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup will join the Junior Kulas next week. Goalkeeper Aliana Vakaloloma and forwards Asenaca Naio and Elesi Tabunase will add their experience and skills, along with defender Aleeza Raza, who plays in Australia.
The Junior Kulas’ first match kicks off at 3 PM today. They will face the Cook Islands in their second pool match on Wednesday, with their final match against Samoa on Saturday. The top two teams from each pool will advance to the semi-finals.