The Digicel Fiji Junior Kulas are set to face Tonga in their opening match of the Oceania Federation Confederation under-16 Women’s Championship today at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva. Coach Marika Rodu has dedicated months to preparing the team for this important competition.
Sunil Kumar, head of talent development at Fiji Football, has voiced confidence in the team’s readiness, emphasizing that they are well-prepared 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 noted. He offered his best wishes to the team and encouraged them to seize the opportunity to make history, drawing inspiration from the boys’ team, which qualified for the FIFA Under-17 World Cup in Qatar.
Enhancing their chances, three players from the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup will join the Junior Kulas squad next week. Goalkeeper Aliana Vakaloloma and forwards Asenaca Naio and Elesi Tabunase will add valuable experience to the team. Additionally, defender Aleeza Raza, who competes in Australia, will also be part of the squad.
The Junior Kulas will kick off their campaign at 3 PM today. Following their match against Tonga, they will face the Cook Islands on Wednesday and conclude their pool matches against Samoa on Saturday. The top two teams from each pool will progress to the semi-finals.