The final 23-player squad for Junior Mataliki team has been confirmed as they prepare to compete in the OFC U-19 Women’s Championship Qualifier. Under the guidance of experienced coach Mark Uhatahi, the team is determined to make their mark on the competition and secure a place in the next stage of the tournament, set to take place in Tahiti this September.
Leading the squad is Tonga’s rising star and striker, Tama’a Faletau, who has been named captain. Faletau brings valuable experience to the team, having already represented the senior women’s national team, Mataliki. Another key player with senior international experience is Ana Talasinga, further strengthening the squad with her leadership and skill.
A significant boost to the team comes in the form of six overseas-based players, all hailing from the United States. Among them are Cienna Filimoeatu and Kuria Malohifoou, who both featured in last year’s OFC U-16 Women’s Championship in Fiji. Malohifoou, in particular, stood out in that competition, earning the Player of the Match award in two games.
In addition to the overseas talent, the coaching staff has selected a core group of experienced local players who are ready to blend with their international teammates. Two-time U-16 captain Tema Tonga is among those set to play a crucial role in the squad’s campaign. Furthermore, five players from Tonga’s 2023 U-19 Women’s team return for their second U-19 tournament, bringing continuity and experience to the team.
Coach Mark Uhatahi expressed confidence in the squad’s potential, stating, “We have assembled a strong team with a mix of experience and fresh talent. The combination of local and overseas players gives us a good balance, and our goal is clear – to advance to the next stage of the tournament in Tahiti. The players have shown great commitment in training, and we believe they are ready to represent Tonga with pride.”
The tournament will kick off next week Friday here in Loto-Tonga Soka Centre. Tonga will kick off their first match next Friday against Solomon Islands at 2:00pm, and their last match against American Samoa on Thursday, 13th, both games will kick off at 2:00pm Tonga time. The team will now shift focus to their preparations for the upcoming qualifiers, where they aim to showcase their development and secure a spot in the next phase of the competition. With a blend of emerging talent and seasoned players, Junior Mataliki is poised for an exciting campaign on the road to Tahiti.
Junior Mataliki for OFC U-19 Women’s Championship – Qualifier
- Temaleti Taufa’ao
- Kanani Ha’unga
- Vika Mafi
- Anela Makaafi
- Ana Talasinga
- Gabriella Filimoeatu
- ‘Anau Lopeti (Vc)
- Tema Tonga
- Kuria Malohifo’ou
- Tama’a Faletau (C)
- Cienna Filimoe’atu
- Sala Longopoa
- Losaline Tu’utafaiva
- Leeann Taufa’ao
- Sailina Ma’u
- Makelesi Malafu
- Sophie Hale
- Keira Wolfgram
- Anita Hufanga
- Malia Moeaki
- Crystal Sime
- Anna Pongi
- Mele Hale
End.
