Tonga secured third place in the OFC U-16 Women’s Championship, surpassing their previous performance in 2023. The team faced a challenging start as Tyra Bagiante had to withdraw shortly before the match, leading to Sophiana Moala stepping in to take her place.
New Caledonia initially controlled the match, focusing their attacks on Kinë Hmaen. Despite their dominance, they struggled to generate clear scoring opportunities, with their best chance coming just before halftime when Hmaen was thwarted by a timely defensive play from Tonga.
The first half was largely uneventful, but as the fatigue set in from two weeks of rigorous competition, it became apparent that the outcome would hinge on which team could cope better with the physical and mental challenges.
New Caledonia appeared more likely to score as the second half unfolded. Matha Bako almost opened the scoring with a powerful free-kick that was narrowly saved by Tonga’s goalkeeper, Temaleti Rauaao. Soon after, Hmaen thought she had put New Caledonia ahead on a fast break, only to be ruled offside.
However, the tide turned quickly when Tonga took the lead just a minute later. Cienna Filimoeatu’s free-kick hit the crossbar, allowing Kuria Malohifo’ou to follow up and score.
New Caledonia regrouped and pushed forward in search of an equalizer, but they found it difficult to penetrate Tonga’s strong defense, with Tema Tonga and Losaline Tu’utafaiva effectively managing threats from Hmaen and Kanë Dralu.
In a tense moment during the 85th minute, New Caledonia nearly equalized from a chaotic corner, but the ensuing shot went high over the bar. Kessyna Nypie made a critical save to deny Moala shortly after, but New Caledonia ultimately could not regain control of the match from Tonga.