FIJI’S under-17 futsal players return from Dakar with more than three defeats on the scoreboard, having taken their first steps onto an international stage that could shape the future of women’s futsal in the country.
For the U17 girls, the 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Senegal was not simply another tournament. It was a historic first appearance for Fiji women’s futsal at the Youth Olympic Games, giving a new generation of players an opportunity to measure themselves against some of the world’s experienced oppositions.
The campaign ended with a 6-0 defeat to Venezuela last Friday, following an 8-1 loss to hosts Senegal and a 5-1 defeat to Ukraine.
However, the results tell only part of the story.
Against Ukraine, Kinisimere Botesulu showed Fiji’s attacking potential when she scored from a counter-attack to bring her side within a goal at 2-1 at halftime. Akanisi Katonitabua had earlier written her name into the team’s history by scoring Fiji’s opening goal against Senegal.
Behind the historic appearance was months of preparation and a nationwide search for talent.
With no active regional U17 girls’ futsal championship available, the coaching staff took their search across Fiji’s Southern, Western and Northern divisions, conducting scouting trials in Suva, Ba and Labasa.
The initial group of 14 players was gradually developed before being reduced to the final 10-member travelling squad.
Captain Salanieta Vosadora previously acknowledged the challenge of securing a place in the team.
“It was tough at first, and it was not easy fighting for our spot. We had many trials and many girls, but 10 of us were so happy to be picked and to represent Fiji in the futsal team,” she said.
Head coach José Gerardo also recognised the significance of the opportunity.
“We are very proud to make history for Fiji women’s futsal,” Gerardo said.
He said competing against stronger international opposition would help the players improve their decision-making, concentration and ability to work together under pressure.
The journey also builds on the progress of Fiji’s senior women’s futsal program, which finished runners-up at the 2024 OFC Women’s Futsal Nations Cup.
While the young side did not progress beyond the group stage in Dakar, its experience provides an important starting point for the next generation.
For these girls, the results may not have gone their way, but they have helped open another door for women’s futsal in Fiji
