The Digicel Fiji Junior Kulas are set to face Tonga today in their opening match at the Oceania Federation Confederation Under-16 Women’s Championship, taking place at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva.
Coach Marika Rodu has dedicated months to prepare his team for this crucial competition. Fiji Football’s head of talent development, Sunil Kumar, has shown confidence in the squad’s readiness, noting that they are well-prepared to face some of the top teams in the Pacific region.
“The girls are fit, ready, and eager for the challenges ahead. The team has worked diligently to reach peak performance for the championship,” Kumar remarked. He extended his best wishes to the players, encouraging them to create history similarly to the boys’ team, which recently qualified for the FIFA Under-17 World Cup in Qatar.
In a significant boost for the team, 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 enhance the team’s experience and skills, along with defender Aleeza Raza, who plays in Australia.
The Junior Kulas will kick off their championship campaign today at 3 PM. Their next match is against the Cook Islands on Wednesday, followed by a final group match against Samoa on Saturday. The top two teams from each pool will advance to the semi-finals.