The Fiji Young Kulas are set to make history as they play in Colombia tomorrow, marking the first appearance of a Fijian women’s team at a FIFA World Cup event. Under the guidance of coach Angeline Chua, the team will face Brazil, a formidable opponent, at Estadio Atanasio Girardot in Medellín.
The Young Kulas are placed in a challenging Group B alongside Brazil, France, and Canada. Assistant coach Annette Nainima expressed that the team feels both “excited and nervous” about this significant milestone. “Most of the players have only seen the Women Under-20 World Cup on television, cheering for their favorite teams. Now, they have the chance to play against teams like Brazil and Canada, which is a big deal for them,” she stated.
Fiji’s journey to the World Cup began last October when FIFA expanded the U-20 Women’s World Cup format to accommodate 24 teams. The Young Kulas secured their spot by finishing as runners-up to New Zealand in the 2023 OFC U-19 Women’s Championship held in July. The previous format allowed only one OFC team to qualify, but the expansion provided Fiji with the opportunity to compete alongside New Zealand in Colombia.
Nainima noted the strong support from their home federation, stating, “Our CEO was quite excited and ensured we received the best resources and preparations possible.” The team underwent extensive training, including a camp in Canberra and friendly matches in the United States and Costa Rica, which Nainima described as an “eye-opening” experience. She highlighted the differences in playing styles they encountered internationally, saying, “Seeing the various approaches and the number of coaches and staff with the teams was surprising for the girls coming from a smaller country like Fiji.”
Most of the Young Kulas are based in Fiji, with many also part of the senior squad for this year’s Olympic Qualifying Tournament. To strengthen their squad, Fiji welcomed 15-year-old goalkeeper Aliana Vakaloloma and Fullerton Titans’ player Talei Moodie, who joined the team in the weeks leading up to the tournament.
Nainima remarked on the team’s seamless integration, particularly with Moodie, who blended well with the group upon arrival. “At the airport, it was as if the girls already knew her. They quickly became friends, singing and sharing stories,” she said. “Her presence brings a lot to the team.”
Fiji’s first match against Brazil is scheduled for 11 am on Sunday, September 1, followed by matches against Canada at 1 pm on Wednesday, September 4, and France at 10 am on Saturday, September 7, all listed in Fiji time.