Samoa U16 wins three from three and break Fijian hearts

Photo Credit: OFC Media via Phototek/

14 September 2024 – Samoa defeat OFC U-16 Women’s Championship hosts Fiji to progress to the semi-finals top of Group A, a result that sees Tonga progress in second place.

The proposition was simple: After Tonga’s convincing win over the Cook Islands earlier in the day, Fiji knew a draw, or a win would see them finish second in Group A and get through to the OFC U-16 Women’s Championship semi-finals.

With progression to the semi-finals already secured, Juan Chang made several changes to his starting XI, resting Holly Leapai and Cali Willis and bringing Brielle Tautua and Jayde Sagapolutele into the starting line-up. Marika Rodu, meanwhile, brought Shania Singh and Ulamila Rasovasova in to start.

But if there was any thought that the two teams could take it easy and play out a 90-minute stalemate, it hadn’t occurred to Samoa or Fiji.

It was a close, competitive first half, with Fiji finding their physicality comfortably matched by Samoa. Robust challenges were flying in from both sides, with Fiji forced into an early substitution as Asenaca Naio had to be replaced by Suliana Vuniyayawa but not too many clear-cut chances. The closest opportunity came from a dangerously in-swinging corner from Leah Atuaia almost resulting an Olympico.

The second half saw Samoa introduce Leapai, who brought a much-welcomed injection of strength and composure to the Samoa front line, and the number nine immediately made her presence known, getting an early shot away.

The deadlock was broken in the 51st minute by Ayres Ava, who redirected a looping ball past Ariana Valakoloma.

Now knowing they needed to chase a result, and simply had to score, Fiji stepped up the intensity front and back. Vakalomoa made a fine save as Leapai sent a dangerous ball across the box, holding it well as Samoa flung themselves forward but couldn’t make the connection.

Late in the game Fiji’s Sisilia Kuladina tried her luck from range, where she had scored from in the last two games, but Margaret Fagasuisui Tuii was equal to her strike.

Despite all the heart and will they were throwing into the game, Fiji couldn’t find the moment of magic to see them through a well-organised Samoa.

Samoa: 1 (Ayres Ava 51’)
Fiji: 0
HT: 0-0