Fiji Kulas have joined Papua New Guinea in securing their place in Round 3 of the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027™ Oceania Qualifiers from Group B, following a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Vanuatu on home soil at Govind Park in Ba.
Their progression completes the semi-final line-up for the qualification process, with New Zealand and American Samoa also advancing from Group A.
The decisive moment came in the 20th minute, when Sofi Diyalowai found the back of the net for the Fijian Kulas. The strike marked her third goal of the qualification campaign, continuing her impressive form after earning Player of the Match honours in Fiji’s earlier win over New Caledonia.
Despite falling behind, Vanuatu created several promising opportunities throughout the contest. Nettie Kalsau came close to equalising when she clipped the top of the crossbar, while Leimata Simon caused problems for Fiji’s defence during the opening half.
Vanuatu continued to push for an upset in the second half, but were unable to capitalise on their chances. Simon forced Fiji goalkeeper Ka’iulani Scott into a strong save, tipping the ball away, while Valerie Viralolokwai missed from close range.
Fiji ultimately held firm defensively to secure a decisive three points, confirming their place in the next stage of the Oceania qualifying pathway.
