After a tough opening match, Mataliki is gearing up for what could be their most challenging encounter of the tournament, a clash with host nation Fiji tomorrow.
Mataliki suffered a 3-0 defeat to Vanuatu on Saturday in their first outing of the OFC Women’s Nations Cup 2025. With just two days to regroup, they now face a must-win scenario if they are to keep their semi-final hopes alive.
Their opponents, Fiji, come into the match on the back of an impressive comeback. Trailing 2-1 at halftime against the Solomon Islands, Fiji rallied in the second half to win 3-2 sending a strong message to the rest of the competition.
Speaking after Saturday’s loss, Mataliki’s Head Coach, Kilifi Uele acknowledged that the team is still finding its rhythm, especially with limited time to train together as a unified squad of both overseas and local-based players.
“I believe today’s result came down to the overseas-based and local players not yet being able to fully connect and execute our game plan as one unit,” said Uele. “But from what I saw in their individual performances, this team absolutely has the potential to win our remaining two matches.”
Ahead of the Fiji clash, Uele said the team has been working hard to refine their game plan the same one used against Vanuatu but with greater focus on team cohesion and execution.
“We just finished our final preparations for the Fiji match,” he shared. “After training, we had time to reflect and share with the players not just at our accommodation but out on the field about what we need to fix before tomorrow.”
Uele acknowledged Fiji’s strength, especially as tournament favourites and playing in front of their home crowd, but remained hopeful.
“It’s going to be a tough match. Fiji is one of the top teams, but we have a plan to go against them. This team has potential, we just need to work together and execute that plan properly.”
While the tactics remain the same, the focus is now on greater ball control and attacking intent.
“The more we control and have the ball, the less we defend, and the more chances we create to score,” Uele added.
Tomorrow’s match is crucial not just for points, but for pride and belief. A win would not only reignite Mataliki’s campaign but also prove their ability to grow quickly in a high-pressure tournament setting.
Kickoff is set for 7:00 PM at HFC Bank Stadium. All Tongans in Suva are encouraged to come out and support the team as they take on the hosts in this vital clash.
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