Semi-Final: Tonga vs New Zealand – 18/9/24
In a thrilling finish to the Tonga National U16 Women’s team’s pool matches, they have once again secured a place in the semi-final after a commanding 6-0 victory over the Cook Islands. The win, paired with Fiji’s 1-0 loss to Samoa, ensured Tonga’s spot in the next stage, finishing second in their group.
Tonga went into their final group match knowing they needed a significant victory over the Cook Islands, along with a favourable result from Fiji’s clash with Samoa. The stakes were high, but Future Mataliki responded with an outstanding performance. Despite Cook Islands’ much-improved play throughout the tournament, Tonga managed to rise to the occasion.
From the outset, the Cook Islands led the attack pushing Tonga into their goal but the relentless pressure paid off for Tonga just before half-time. In a moment of confusion, a deflection off Kuria Malohifo’ou after failed clearance attempt by Cook Islands’ defence resulted in Tonga’s opening goal by number 6, Kuria Malohifo’ou in the 38th minutes giving Tonga the lead in the break 1-0.
Malohifo’ou continued to be a dominant force, doubling Tonga’s lead early in the second half. Breaking through the Cook Island’s high defensive line, she showcased her speed and poise, slotting the ball past Cook Island’s Goal Keeper with ease.
Malohifo’ou’s persistence created opportunities for her teammates, as Tema Tonga netted her first of the match after capitalising on a defensive miscue, followed by her second in the 71st minute, which was set up by Malohifo’ou’s clever assist.
Bagiante, who had been a constant threat throughout, added a fifth goal in the 80th minute with a dazzling individual run and a powerful strike that left Cook Island’s Goal Keeper helpless. The final goal came courtesy of Sophiana Moala in stoppage time, sealing a dominant 6-0 win for Tonga and securing their semi-final place.
Tonga’s triumph sets up an exciting semi-final clash against New Zealand, a rematch of last year’s semi-final encounter. Future Mataliki will enter the contest brimming with confidence, especially after seeing New Zealand’s narrow 1-0 victory over the Solomon Islands in their last pool match. Tonga knows that New Zealand is a tough opponent, but this year they believe they have what it takes to go all the way.
As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on the semi-finals, where Samoa will take on New Caledonia, and Tonga will battle New Zealand. The Future Mataliki squad has already proven their strength and determination, and they will look to carry that momentum into the play-offs.
Match Recap: Tonga: 6 (Kuria Malohifo’ou 38’,49’; Tema Tonga 63’,71’; Tyra Bagiante 80’; Sophiana Moala 90’)
Semi-final Fixtures:
- Samoa vs New Caledonia: 1:00pm TOT
- New Zealand vs Tonga: 4:00pm TOT
Tonga’s journey continues as they aim for a historic place in the final and a place in the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup next year.
End.
