As the highly anticipated OFC U19 Women’s Championship kicks off tomorrow, all eyes are on Adi Litia Bakaniceva, the captain of the Digicel Young Kulas, Fiji’s U19 women’s national team. Known for her leadership skills and formidable presence on the field, Adi Litia Bakaniceva is determined to lead her team to success in the championship.
Born on March 9th, 2004, in Vunimono, Tailevu, Adi Litia Bakaniceva developed a passion for football at an early age. She attended Vunimono Islaamia School for her primary education and later continued her studies at Vunimono High School. Representing Rewa, she made her debut with the district team Tailevu Naitasiri and has since climbed the ranks to become an integral part of the national women’s team, the Kulas, and the Under 19 squad.
Adi Litia Bakaniceva’s playing position as a defensive midfielder allows her to showcase her exceptional skills and tactical awareness on the field. Her ability to control the midfield, distribute the ball with precision, and provide solid defensive cover makes her a vital asset to the team.
When asked about her favorite local player, Adi Litia Bakaniceva admires Luisa Tamani for her creativity as a playmaker. Looking up to international football, she draws inspiration from Lionel Messi, praising his humility, incredible counterattack speed, and ability to deliver in crucial moments.
Reflecting on her football journey, Adi Litia Bakaniceva cites winning the 2018 Secondary Schools Inter District Championship (IDC) as her best moment in the sport. However, she also acknowledges the pain of losing to Papua New Guinea in the 2022 OFC Nations Cup Final, which prevented her team from advancing to the FIFA Intercontinental Playoffs for a chance to qualify for the FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Facing tough opponents is a part of the game, and Adi Litia Bakaniceva highlights Angie Rekha and Sereana Naweni as her toughest opponents. Their skills and tenacity on the field push her to continuously improve her performance.
Passionate about nurturing the next generation of footballers, Adi Litia Bakaniceva advises young players to be strong, fearless, and believe in themselves. She emphasizes the importance of self-belief in achieving success on and off the field.
Beyond football, Adi Litia Bakaniceva enjoys socializing, indulging in her favorite drink, apple juice, and savoring chicken pasta. Hip hop music sets the rhythm for her off-field endeavors, while Zendaya and Ryan Reynolds rank as her favorite actress and actor, respectively.
With the support of her best buddy, Rosi Baraki, and the inspiration she derives from her parents’ sacrifices, Adi Litia Bakaniceva is determined to make her mark in football. She proudly leads the Digicel Young Kulas as their captain, aiming for victory and a strong performance in the OFC U19 Women’s Championship.
Adi Litia Bakaniceva’s speed, delivery, and leadership will be instrumental in driving her team forward as the championship commences. Her ultimate goal as captain is to lift the trophy and bring glory to Fiji, showcasing women’s football’s rising talent and potential.
Fiji’s first match in the championship is against the defending champions, New Zealand, on Thursday, June 22nd at 4pm. The match will take place at the HFC Stadium in Suva, following the kickoff of the championship tomorrow at midday in Lautoka’s Churchill Park.
