Fiji’s only female FIFA referee, Torika Delai, continues to make strides on the international stage, earning a prestigious appointment as a match official for the highly anticipated Matildas vs Slovenia international friendlies in Perth, Australia.
The two matches will be played at HBF Park on June 26 and June 29, with Delai appointed as the referee for the opening fixture.
Delai’s selection follows her impressive performance in the 2025 BiC Fiji FACT Final, further solidifying her reputation as one of the Pacific’s top officiating talents.
Fiji Football Association President Rajesh Patel extended heartfelt congratulations to Delai, hailing the achievement as a proud moment for both Fiji Football and the nation.
“Torika’s appointment to officiate the Matildas vs Slovenia international is a proud moment for Fiji Football and for the entire nation,” Patel said.
“Her dedication, professionalism, and consistency have earned her this well-deserved recognition. She is not only an inspiration to aspiring referees in Fiji, but also a role model for women across the Pacific. We are confident she will continue to shine and make Fiji proud.”
The fixtures mark a historic occasion, with the Matildas playing in regional Western Australia for the first time, and Delai’s involvement adds further significance, highlighting the growth of officiating talent from the Pacific.
“Her appointment underscores the growing recognition of refereeing talent emerging from the Pacific region,” Patel added.
“This is a significant milestone not just in her career, but also in the broader context of representation in officiating.”
