Fiji women’s senior football team midfielder Adi Litia Bakaniceva says communication and teamwork will be key as the national women’s football team heads to Papua New Guinea today.
Bakaniceva was named in the final Fiji Kula 22-member squad that will play two international friendlies against PNG on Friday May 30 and Monday June 2 at Port Moresby.
The matches are part of the team’s build-up for the OFC Women’s Nations Cup and the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027 qualifiers.
“It’s good to be back with the team,” the 21-year-old said after training.
“We’re working on communication and building team chemistry. It’s important to understand how each player plays.”
Bakaniceva joined Hekari United in PNG in March and said the pace of football there is much faster.
“The game is quicker in PNG. It’s something I’ve had to adapt to. Now I want to bring that experience to help the team.”
She added that her target is to help keep the team focused and united during the tour.
“We just need to stay together and push to beat our opponent. That’s the goal.”
Bakaniceva was also named the Extra Supermarket 2024 Female Footballer of the Year last year and plays as a midfielder.
She joins fellow Hekari player Maria Veronika, who is also in the traveling squad.
The two are part of the overseas-based players selected by head coach Angeline Chua to strengthen the side.
The Kulas had their final session at the Fiji FA Academy grounds in Vatuwaqa before departing for PNG today.
The team hopes the friendly matches will help sharpen their combinations and give younger players much-needed experience ahead of the qualifiers.
The full squad includes Sisilia Kuladina, Koleta Likuculacula, Mereseini Waqali, Sereana Naweni, Ulamila Reva, Teonila Levuiciva, Suliana Vuniyayawa, Caroline Qalivere, Annie May, Sofi Diyalowai, Ema Mereia, Leba Narieta, Jotivini Tabua, Filomena Racea, Kasanita Tabua, Pijila Kilaiwaca, Sonia Alfred, Naomi Waqanidrola, Emily Esposito and Cema Nasau.
