Fiji women’s football team concluded their two-match international friendly series against the Papua New Guinea Women’s National Team (PNG WNT) with an emphatic 3-1 victory on Monday in Port Moresby, thanks to a sensational hat-trick by striker Cema Nasau.
Nasau, who had already scored the equaliser in the first match that ended 2-2, continued her electric form, netting all three goals in the second encounter and cementing her place as Fiji’s attacking spearhead.
The match began with an early scare as PNG’s Marie Kaipu put the hosts in front. However, Fiji responded before halftime when Nasau unleashed a powerful low drive that beat PNG goalkeeper Faith Kasiray, leveling the scores.
After the break, Fiji returned with renewed energy, and Nasau delivered two more goals to secure her hat-trick and the victory. The 24-year-old forward, who recently signed with Eastern Suburbs FC in New Zealand, has now tallied four goals in two games, a clear testament to her growing influence on the national team.
Head coach Angeline Chua was full of praise for Nasau, confirming her role as captain for next month’s Women’s Nations Cup, which Fiji will host.
“Cema was outstanding across both matches,” Chua said. “She leads by example on and off the pitch, and her performances show she’s ready for the responsibility ahead.”
Chua also expressed gratitude to PNG for providing strong competition and highlighted the value of these friendlies as preparation for the upcoming tournament.
Chua also commended goalkeeper Emily Esposito for her impressive debut and extended heartfelt thanks to the Fijian community in Papua New Guinea and the Fiji High Commission for their unwavering support.
As both nations shift focus to the 2025 OFC Women’s Nations Cup, the friendly series has provided critical insights and a solid platform to build on ahead of the region’s premier women’s football tournament.
