Mereseini Waqali, the talented young goalkeeper for the Young Kulas, has garnered attention with her outstanding performance in the semi-finals of the OFC U19 Women’s Championship. Known as “Meme,” Waqali made impressive saves during the match against Samoa, solidifying her position as a rising star in Fijian women’s football.
Wearing the Number 1 jersey, Waqali will face her toughest challenge yet as Fiji prepares to take on New Zealand in the championship final at HFC Stadium in Suva tomorrow. With her strength, agility, and a remarkable presence on the field, Waqali has become a key player in the team’s pursuit of victory.
Born on May 28th, 2007, in Toge, Ba, Waqali discovered her passion for football at a young age. She made her debut in the Ba FC district team and has since represented Fiji at various national levels, including the National Women’s Team, Kulas.
Reflecting on her journey, Waqali cherishes winning the 2022 Secondary School Inter-District Championship as a pivotal moment in her football career. She draws inspiration from local player Cema Nasau, known for her exceptional skills, and international star Alex Morgan, who embodies speed and clutch performances.
In preparation for the final match, Waqali and her teammates are determined to secure victory and qualify for the U20 Women’s World Cup. She encourages young footballers to believe in themselves and work diligently towards their dreams.
Off the field, Waqali enjoys socializing, playing island beats, and finding inspiration from actress Gal Gadot and actor Will Smith. Her support system includes her best buddy Evivi Buka, who shares her passion for football.
As the spotlight shines on Mereseini Waqali in the OFC U19 Women’s Championship final, all eyes will be on her as she aims to demonstrate her skills and lead Fiji to victory. With her talent and dedication, Waqali is poised to make a significant impact in Fijian women’s football.
