Samoa triumphed over host nation Fiji with a score of 1-0 in the OFC U-16 Women’s Championship, earning the top position in Group A and securing a spot in the semi-finals.
This outcome also allowed Tonga to advance in second place, resulting in Fiji’s elimination from the tournament. Fiji required at least a draw to move forward, but they were unable to achieve that. The match was fiercely contested from the outset, with both teams displaying equal physicality despite various lineup changes.
Fiji faced an early setback when Asenaca Naio had to be substituted for Suliana Vuniyayawa due to a challenging play. The first half saw neither team able to score.
Samoa made a strategic substitution by bringing in Holly Leapai during the second half, which quickly paid off. In the 51st minute, Ayres Ava delivered the game-winning goal by redirecting a high ball past Fiji’s goalkeeper, Aliana Vakalomoa.
Fiji made a strong effort to equalize, with Vakalomoa producing crucial saves and midfielder Sisilia Kuladina attempting long-range shots, but Samoa’s defense remained resolute.
In the end, Fiji was unable to find the necessary goal, and Samoa’s well-organized team maintained their lead to secure victory. Samoa will advance to the semi-finals, while Fiji’s tournament journey concludes on a disappointing note.