Digicel Fiji Junior Kulas secured their first victory at the OFC U-16 Women’s Championship with a commanding 2-0 win against the Cook Islandsat the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva.
After a 3-3 draw with Tonga, Fiji needed this win to remain in contention for the semi-finals.
Coach Marika Rodu’s side benefited from the addition of players who had participated in the historic Young Kulas FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup campaign.
15-year-old goalkeeper Aliana Vakaloloma, along with forwards Elesi Tabunase and Asenaca Naio, bolstered the Fijian lineup.
The first goal came in the 14th minute when Sisilia Tuvou Kuladina expertly placed a first-time shot into the bottom left corner. Kuladina also played a key role in creating a chance for Tabunase, whose goal was disallowed for offside. Soon after, Grace Lakavutu doubled Fiji’s lead by breaking the offside trap and scoring calmly.
Although the Cook Islands mounted a more robust second-half performance, forcing Vakaloloma into several saves, they could not break through. Fiji continued to press, but Cook Islands’ defense, led by captain Metuamaru Arere, held firm, keeping the final score at 2-0.
With this win, Fiji now sits in second place in Group A, preparing for a decisive match against Samoa on Saturday. Meanwhile, the Cook Islands will face Tonga in their final group-stage match.
