Fiji and Tonga played to a dramatic 3-3 draw in the opening match of the OFC U-16 Women’s Championships held at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva. Fiji initially took the lead when Uliana Vuniyayawa seized on a loose ball in the midfield. This early advantage inspired the team to score a second goal, with Sisilia Tuvou Kuladina delivering a spectacular free-kick from 35 yards that sailed into the net, eluding the Tongan goalkeeper.
However, the second half saw a resilient Tongan squad stage a comeback. Filimoeatu assisted Kuria Malohofo’ou, who struck a powerful shot past Fiji’s goalkeeper Melania Keresoni, igniting Tonga’s resurgence. The momentum shifted further in Tonga’s favor when Tyra Bagiante, a key player throughout the match, equalized by skillfully finishing a significant move.
As Fiji’s confidence began to falter, the match remained competitive. Fiji nearly reclaimed the lead when Teonila Levuiciva came close, but Tongan goalkeeper Temaleti Taufa’ao made a vital save to keep the score level. Just when it seemed that Fiji was on the verge of victory, substitute Grace Lakavutu scored with a clever finish, sparking celebrations from the Fijian bench.
Despite trailing, Tonga responded emphatically. Malohifo’ou netted again, securing a draw with a late equalizer, wrapping up the match with a final score of 3-3.