The Fiji Kulas’ historic dream of winning their maiden OFC Women’s Nations Cup title was dashed after a hard-fought 2-1 semi-final defeat to defending champions Papua New Guinea at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva.
In front of a passionate home crowd, the Kulas showed immense determination and resilience, but were ultimately outclassed by a well-organised PNG side, coached by Ericson Komeng, who fielded a formidable starting XI featuring seven players from Hekari United Women’s FC.
Papua New Guinea settled early and dominated large spells of the first half with slick passing and attacking threat. The dynamic trio of Marie Kaipu, Michaelyne Butubu, and Keren Kalapai caused constant problems for the Fijian backline.
The game’s turning point came with the influential return of PNG’s midfield maestro Ramona Padio, who had missed last month’s friendly clashes with Fiji.
In the 26th minute, Padio delivered a precise cross that was met by Kalapai, whose well-timed header beat 18-year-old Fijian goalkeeper Emily Esposito.
Just four minutes later, Padio nearly doubled PNG’s lead, forcing a brilliant near-post save from Esposito. But in the 29th minute, Padio unleashed a thunderous 30-metre strike that bounced awkwardly in front of the young keeper and nestled into the back of the net, giving PNG a 2-0 advantage.
To their credit, the Kulas responded instantly. Straight from the restart, a long ball released Narieta Leba, whose pace and persistence saw her regain balance and fire a clinical right-footed finish past Lavinia Hola in the 33rd minute, bringing the score to 2-1 and reigniting the contest.
Spurred on by the Suva crowd, Fiji created more chances before the break. Leba nearly turned provider with a dangerous square ball to Trina Davis, who narrowly missed connecting at the far post. Moments into the second half, Cema Nasau, who had been quiet in the first half, forced an outstanding save from Hola at close range.
Fiji coach Angeline Chua made a bold halftime move, substituting Davis for 14-year-old Adi Reva, hoping to bring fresh energy and unpredictability. But PNG’s experience showed, as they slowed the tempo and controlled possession to protect their lead.
Fiji had one last lifeline when captain Maria Veronika cleared off the line to keep her side in contention. In the dying minutes, the Kulas threw everything forward — corner kicks, long balls, and surging runs — but could not find the equaliser to take the game to extra time.
The result marks another 2-1 heartbreak at the hands of PNG, echoing the scoreline from the 2022 OFC Women’s Nations Cup final.
Fiji will now shift focus to the third-place playoff on Saturday, while Papua New Guinea awaits the winner of the second semi-final between Solomon Islands and Samoa.
