Fiji and Tonga faced off in an exciting 3-3 draw during the opening match of the OFC U-16 Women’s Championships held at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva.
Fiji took an early lead when forward Uliana Vuniyayawa capitalized on a loose ball in midfield. Energized by this advantage, Fiji soon netted a second goal. Sisilia Tuvou Kuladina executed a spectacular free-kick from 35 yards out, sending the ball flying past the Tongan goalkeeper and into the goal.
The second half saw Tonga rally back with determination. Filimoeatu assisted Kuria Malohofo’ou, who struck a powerful shot past Fiji’s goalkeeper Melania Keresoni, signaling Tonga’s resurgence.
Tonga maintained their momentum, with Tyra Bagiante proving a constant threat, and she leveled the score by skillfully finishing a crucial play. Although Fiji’s confidence appeared to be dwindling, the match remained tightly contested.
Fiji nearly regained the lead through Teonila Levuiciva, but Talufa’ao, Tonga’s goalkeeper, made a vital save. The match seemed to favor Fiji when substitute Grace Lakavutu scored with a clever finish, igniting celebrations from the Fijian bench.
However, Tonga was not finished. Malohifo’ou netted another goal in the dying moments of the game, securing a draw and wrapping up the match with a final score of 3-3.