Mataliki has officially arrived and settled into Suva, Fiji, as preparations ramp up for their highly anticipated OFC Women’s Nations Cup 2025 opener this Saturday against Vanuatu.
The team departed Tonga on Monday afternoon with 15 local-based players, who were the first to touch down in Fiji. They were joined today by the remaining eight overseas-based players, seven from the United States and one from New Zealand bringing the full squad together for the first time.
Today’s training was special as it was the first session with almost the complete team. The only player absent during training was the New Zealand-based footballer, Vea Funaki who arrived later in the afternoon after the session had concluded.
Head Coach, Kilifi Uele was full of praise for the energy, unity, and focus the team brought to their first day together in Suva.
“This was the first time that nearly the entire Mataliki squad came together for training. The only one missing was our New Zealand-based player, who arrived later in the day after the session had finished.” Uele shared.
“I felt really happy and excited today. Even though the full team wasn’t there yet, most of the squad was, and it was clear that these are the players who are truly committed to representing Tonga. Our local players arrived eager and ready to compete, and I was pleased to see our overseas-based players step in with that same energy and mindset. It’s a great sign for the team, and I’m genuinely proud.”
Among the arrivals from the U.S. are two unique family combinations, the Filimoeatu sisters and the Makaafi sisters adding natural chemistry and a strong family dynamic to the squad. Their presence brings back memories of the Vaka twins, who proudly represented Tonga at the previous OFC Women’s Nations Cup and left a lasting impression on the international stage.
“The family connections are special,” added Uele. “Last tournament we saw what the Vaka sisters brought to the team, and now with the Filimoeatu and Makaafi sisters in camp, that same spirit is here again, tight bonds, mutual understanding, and shared pride. It’s exciting for our future.”
With three more days to prepare as a full squad before Saturday’s clash, the team is taking every opportunity to build rhythm, cohesion, and confidence. Based at Yatulau Hotel in Suva, the players and staff have settled in comfortably and are fully focused on the task ahead.
The squad remains in good health, with the captain and all players reported to be injury-free and in top condition.
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