Tonga’s path to the semi-finals at the OFC Women’s Nations Cup 2025 became more uncertain following a 3-0 defeat to hosts Fiji on Tuesday evening at the HFC Bank Stadium.
Despite the result, it was a far more competitive showing from Mataliki compared to their last encounter with Fiji, where they suffered a heavy 12-0 defeat in 2018. This time, Tonga managed to hold the tournament favourites for long stretches of the match, displaying strong defensive resilience and moments of attacking intent.
Fiji, who entered the match full of confidence after their opening win over Solomon Islands, struggled to break down Tonga early on. Goalkeeper Keira Wolfgramm came up big within the opening ten minutes, denying a one-on-one opportunity from Cema Nasau, the hero of their 2018 clash.
But Nasau eventually found the breakthrough in the 30th minute, heading home from a corner to open the scoring and register her third goal of the tournament taking her tally to ten all-time in this competition.
Fiji pushed to extend their lead before the break, with near misses from Anisha Dwarka and Narieta Leba. However, Tonga’s best chance came just before half-time when Gabriela Filimoetau’s powerful strike narrowly missed the crossbar.
In the second half, Mataliki tightened up even further. Coach Kilifi Uele’s young side showed improved structure and determination, frustrating Fiji’s forwards. Wolfgramm continued to shine, denying another header from Nasau and calmly collecting a long-range effort from Preeya Singh.
The pressure eventually told in the 80th minute, when substitute Sereana Naweni latched onto a through ball from Bakaniceva, rounded the goalkeeper, and slotted home to double Fiji’s lead. In added time, Elesi Tabunase sealed the win with a scrappy finish from a corner, putting the final score at 3-0.
Speaking after the match, Head Coach Kilifi Uele shared his thoughts on the performance.
“Our girls really fought hard today, and their performance was definitely a step up from the first game. Unfortunately, we didn’t get the result, but we have to respect the better team tonight. What matters is that we’re building something more competitive and I’m proud of the way the girls played. Credit to Fiji, they were stronger today.”
With a long-term vision in mind, Uele emphasized the importance of youth development and building a new identity for Mataliki.
“As I’ve said in earlier press conference, this team is our future. We’re bringing in young players who suit our system and vision. We know it’s a challenge to build with a new group, but our focus is long-term. This is about developing a foundation for the future of Mataliki.”
Looking ahead to the must-win clash against Solomon Islands, Uele remains confident in his team’s preparation and mindset.
“Our preparation doesn’t change. We stick to our game plan, and the key now is having the will to win. Solomon Islands will also be hungry, but we are still in this fight. We’ll tidy up a few areas and go into the match ready to give everything for that final chance.”
Tonga’s hopes of reaching the semi-finals remain alive but hinge on a strong performance in their final match against Solomon Islands. A convincing win is essential if Mataliki are to keep their campaign going.
For Fiji, a draw against Vanuatu would be enough to secure top spot in the group, but all teams are still in with a chance making the final matchday a crucial one for Group B contenders.
Fiji: 3 (Cema NASAU 30’, Sereana NAWENI 80’, Elesi TABUNASE 90+7′)
Tonga: 0
HT: 1-0
