Fiji and Tonga played to an exciting 3-3 draw in the opening match of the OFC U-16 Women’s Championships at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva.
Fiji took an early lead with forward Uliana Vuniyayawa taking advantage of a loose ball in midfield. Following this, Fiji doubled their lead when Sisilia Tuvou Kuladina scored with an impressive free-kick from 35 yards, sending the ball past the Tongan goalkeeper.
However, the second half saw Tonga rise to the occasion. Filimoeatu assisted Kuria Malohofo’ou, who struck a powerful shot past Fiji’s goalkeeper Melania Keresoni, marking the beginning of Tonga’s comeback.
Tonga maintained their momentum when Tyra Bagiante scored, skillfully finishing a pivotal play to level the match at 2-2. Despite the initial boost in confidence for Fiji, the game remained tightly contested. Fiji had a chance to regain the lead when Teonila Levuiciva nearly scored, but Temaleti Taufa’ao, Tonga’s goalkeeper, made a critical save.
The match appeared destined for a Fijian victory when substitute Grace Lakavutu scored a creative goal, igniting celebrations on the Fijian bench. However, Tonga responded with resilience. Malohifo’ou found the net again, securing a late equalizer to finish the match at 3-3.