Fiji’s women’s football team, the Kulas, is set to kick off the OFC Women’s Nations Cup on Saturday against the Solomon Islands at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva at 7 PM. Head coach Angeline Chua expressed her team’s commitment to inspiring the next generation of female athletes in Fiji as they prepare for this significant tournament.
Chua highlighted that the squad has been training rigorously for months and emphasized the need to enjoy the match, noting, “The work has been done in the previous months, so this is a bit of a test.” She underscored the importance of showing the fans in Fiji what they have learned.
This marks Chua’s debut as head coach in the tournament, following the Kulas’ impressive performance where they reached the finals in the last edition. She aims to build on that success and leave a lasting legacy for young players in Fiji. “The most important thing here is we want to be the pioneers in Fiji and set a good example for the youth,” she remarked.
Notably, 14-year-old Adi Reva has caught the attention of Chua, who described her as a “very special player” who plays without fear on the pitch. Chua acknowledged that while the Solomon Islands are skilled at maintaining possession, her team’s physical style may give them an edge.
The enthusiasm surrounding the tournament reflects a growing support for women’s football in Fiji, where community backing is crucial for fostering the sport. Chua called on fans to come out in numbers to cheer for the team as they embark on this competitive journey.
The Kulas’ preparations have included a blend of local and overseas talent, intensifying their drive to not only perform well in the tournament but also pave the way for future generations of female athletes. With the spotlight on women’s sports in Fiji, this tournament could serve as a pivotal moment in enhancing their recognition and support in the region.
The Kulas are eager to turn their ambition into reality as they pursue a championship on home soil, creating not only hopes for success but also opportunities to inspire young female footballers throughout the nation.
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