Fiji has kicked off the OFC U-16 Women’s Championship 2025 with a confident 4-0 victory over Tahiti in blistering conditions at the Samoa Football headquarters in Apia.
The Baby Kulas’ relentless high press paid dividends early, with captain Teonila Levuiciva opening the scoring in the 11th minute. The forward had already seen two earlier efforts ruled out, one for offside and another for handball, before calmly finishing off a well-worked move.
Tahiti showed glimpses of danger on the counterattack, with Ravahei Chaulet finding regular space down the left flank. In midfield, Merahi Brothers impressed with her tough tackling and composed distribution.
The physical battle in the centre of the park intensified as the half wore on, with Fiji’s pacey winger Zyna Nisha combining well with Levuiciva to keep the pressure on Tahiti’s backline. Despite the pressure, the Tahitians remained resolute, looking to exploit long balls in behind the Fijian defence.
Fiji found a second breakthrough just before the break, when Adi Reva slotted home from close range in the fifth minute of stoppage time to give her side a 2-0 halftime lead.
Tahiti emerged from the break with renewed urgency, pressing high and threatening through their captain’s precise deliveries into the box. But Fiji’s defence held strong, with goalkeeper and centre-backs managing the pressure well.
The result was put beyond doubt in the 62nd minute when Fiji earned a penalty. Kalisi Dama stepped up and coolly converted into the top corner, sealing an impressive opening win for Marika Rodu’s side.
Fiji added a fourth goal deep into injury time when substitute Akanisi Katonitabua got in behind the defence to slot home.
Fiji: 4 (Teonila LEVUICIVA 11’, Adi REVA 45+5’, Kalisi DAMA (P) 62’ Akanisi KATONITABUA 90+10′)
Tahiti: 0
HT: 2-0
Photo Credit: OFC Media via Phototek