After coming close twice before, the Fiji Kulas national women’s football team know that winning the OFC Women’s Nations Cup this time won’t just take skill, it will take focus and resilience under the pressure of a home crowd.
Head coach Angeline Chua has named her final 23-player squad, featuring a strong mix of experienced players and fresh talent, including five overseas-based athletes.
“We have had an intensive preparation phase, and I am proud of how far the players have come,” Chua said.
Among the returning overseas players is forward Trina Davis from the United States, who was a standout performer in the last tournament.
Midfielder Preeya Singh, a recent under-20 national team member from the University of California, Merced, is also included.
Three players will make their senior debut for the Fiji Kula, goalkeeper Ka’iulani Scott (New Zealand), midfielder Anisha Dwarka (USA), and midfielder Akanisi Sorovakarua (USA).
Fiji has been drawn in Pool B alongside Solomon Islands, Tonga, and Vanuatu.
Their opening match is against the Solomon Islands on July 5, followed by Tonga on July 8 and Vanuatu on July 11 all happening at 7pm at the HFC Bank Stadium.
Chua said the team is focused on tactical unity and physical fitness.
“We are working a lot on getting everyone to think the same on the field in terms of the tactical part of the game. Improving technique and fitness is also a priority in all our training sessions.”
The Fiji Kulas finished as runners-up in the last two editions and are determined to lift the trophy at home this time.
The team includes defenders Filomena Racea, Naomi Waqanidrola, Maria Veronika, Pijila Kilaiwaca, Mereoni Tora, Caroline Qalivere, Ema Mereia, Sereana Naweni, Akanisi Sorovakarua. Mid-fielders have Adi Litia Bakaniceva, Cema Nasau, Jotivini Tabua, Preeya Singh, Elesi Tabuanase and Anisha Dwarka. Forwards: Koleta Likuculacula, Trina Davis, Adi Reva, Leba Narieta and Kasanita Tabua.
