Tonga has secured its place in the OFC U-19 Women’s Championship in Tahiti later this year after an emphatic 16-0 triumph over American Samoa in the final match of the qualifying tournament in Loto-Tonga Soka Centre.
After a crucial 1-0 win against the Solomon Islands on match day one, Mark Uhatahi’s squad knew that avoiding defeat would be enough to confirm their qualification. However, they did much more than that, delivering a statement performance that underlined their dominance in the competition.
From the opening whistle, Tonga showcased their attacking prowess, securing qualification by halftime with an incredible nine-goal lead. Captain Tama’a Faletau led the charge with a first-half four goals and finished the match with an impressive six goals. Gabriela Filimoeatu opened the scoring early, setting the tone for an unstoppable attacking display. Her sister, Cienna Filimoeatu, also found the back of the net, adding to the team’s incredible tally.
Other standout performances included Kuria Malohifo’ou, who netted a hat-trick, and Anela Makaafi, who delivered a stunning free-kick goal. Substitute Anna Pongi made an impact off the bench with a brace, while Crystal Sime and an own goal from American Samoa completed the remarkable scoreline.
Tonga’s qualification is the result of months of hard work and determination. Since the disappointment of the last OFC U-19 Women’s Championship, where Tonga was relegated to the qualifying stage after finishing last, the team and coaching staff have worked tirelessly to improve. Their dedication has been evident in the buildup to this tournament, with extensive scouting efforts, training camps, and tactical preparation paying off in style.
Under Mark Uhatahi’s leadership, the squad has developed a formidable team spirit and a hunger for success. The inclusion of young talents like Tamaa Faletau, Gabriela Filimoeatu, and Vika Mafi who has been a rising star in Tonga football has been instrumental in reshaping the team’s fortunes. The TFA’s continued efforts in identifying and nurturing talent, particularly through scouting initiatives in New Zealand, have also played a key role in strengthening the squad.
With this qualification secured, Tonga now turns its attention to the OFC U-19 Women’s Championship in Tahiti. This tournament will offer a platform for the team to further prove themselves against the region’s best and continue their upward trajectory in women’s football.
For now, Tonga celebrates a hard-earned qualification, but the journey is far from over. The focus will now shift to preparations for the main tournament, where they will have the opportunity to showcase their growth and challenge for regional supremacy.
Tonga’s qualification would see them join Pool A alongside Fiji, Samoa, and the Cook Islands. Pool B consists of New Zealand, Tahiti, New Caledonia, and Vanuatu. With a spot in the regional competition on the line, the stakes couldn’t be higher for Junior Mataliki.
Final Score: Tonga 16-0 American Samoa
Goal Scorers:
- Gabriela Filimoeatu (6’)
- Tamaa Faletau (10’, 19’, 26’, 30’, 56’, 64’)
- Kuria Malohifo’ou (17’, 45+5’, 86’)
- Anela Makaafi (29’)
- Cienna Filimoeatu (45+3’)
- Anna Pongi (62’, 80’)
- Own Goal (70’)
- Crystal Sime (71’)
Half-time: 9-0
End.
