Fiji’s women’s football team delivered an electrifying performance by overcoming an early deficit to secure a 3-2 victory against the Solomon Islands in their opening match of the OFC Women’s Nations Cup 2025 at Suva’s HFC Bank Stadium. The match highlighted the team’s determination, with New Zealand-based forward Cema Nasau scoring a crucial second-half brace to turn the tide in Fiji’s favor.
The encounter began with a strong start from the Solomon Islands, who took the lead within the first minutes of the game. A well-timed cross from Almah Gogoni set up Lorina Solosaia, who initially missed a close-range header but made no mistake moments later, converting another assist from Gogoni to put her team ahead 1-0. Fiji’s initial struggles were evident as they found themselves under pressure.
Fiji began to regain their composure and was rewarded with an equalizer just before halftime when Narieta Leba capitalized on a defensive error. However, Solosaia quickly responded for the Solomon Islands, restoring their lead with a calm finish shortly after Leba’s goal.
In a pivotal second half, Fiji’s coach Angeline Chua made a tactical substitution, bringing in Elise Tabunase. The change proved beneficial as Nasau leveled the match early in the half with a brilliant turn and finish. Soon after, she scored again, expertly positioning herself to slide the ball into the goal from a well-placed cross by Adi Liti Bakaniceva, giving Fiji a 3-2 advantage.
As the match progressed, Fiji dominated possession, showcasing their attacking prowess while stifling any further threats from the Solomon Islands, who struggled to create clear-cut chances.
Fiji’s next challenge will be against Tonga, while the Solomon Islands will look to bounce back in their upcoming encounter with Vanuatu. This thrilling victory sets an optimistic tone for the Kulas as they aim to build on their momentum in the ongoing tournament, indicative of their potential in women’s football within the region.
The match demonstrated not only Fiji’s resilience but also the growing support for women’s sports, as local crowds rallied behind the team’s impressive comeback performance.
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