FIJI Kula held off a fast-paced Papua New Guinea side with smart football and late-game composure to earn a 2-all draw in their international friendly on Friday at PNG Football stadium.
Knowing PNG would bring speed and pressure, Fiji focused on structure, short passes and breaking the home team’s rhythm.
“If we can’t match their pace, we disrupt it,” said 19-year-old centre-back Ema Mereia before the match and they did just that.
Fiji struck first in the 40th minute when Narieta Leba found the back of the net.
PNG replied three minutes later through Marie Kaipu to level the score at 1-1 by halftime.
PNG came out strong again after the break and took the lead in the 52nd minute through Keren Kalapai.
But Fiji kept their heads and continued pressing.
Their efforts were rewarded in the 89th minute when Eastern Suburbs striker Cema Nasau equalised to seal the draw at PNG Football Stadium.
The match was part of Fiji’s build-up to the OFC Women’s Nations Cup and the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifiers.
For the Kulas, it was not just about the result, it was about sticking to the plan.
Players worked all week on team communication, building from the back and reacting fast under pressure.
Midfielder Adi Litia Bakaniceva, who plays for Hekari United in PNG, said the team focused on “understanding each other and trusting the plan.”
The second match will be played at 5pm tomorrow.
