THE Fiji Kulas have embarked on another important chapter in their international football journey after departing the country on Monday for Hong Kong, where they will play two FIFA International Friendly matches against the Hong Kong Women’s National Team this week.
The fixtures, scheduled for today and this Saturday, provide the national women’s side with valuable international experience as preparations continue for future regional competitions, including the 5th Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) Prime Minister’s Cup, which Fiji will host in September.
The tour also signals the beginning of a new era for the Kulas under newly appointed head coach Nicola Demaine, in her first overseas assignment since taking charge.
Demaine recently named a 22-member squad for the tour, combining experienced internationals with emerging talent as she continues to build depth and strengthen competition within the national setup.
For her, the Hong Kong tour is about much more than results.
“We want to compete and show we can compete in Asia, but it’s also about building combinations, giving players experience and embedding our style of play,” she said.
The squad has spent the past several weeks training at the Fiji FA Academy in Suva, with preparations focused on fitness, tactical awareness and developing combinations across the field.
Players have also balanced national team commitments with their responsibilities in the Fiji Women’s Super League.
The Fiji Football Association has described the tour as an important step in the long-term development of the women’s program, with the matches providing an opportunity to assess the team’s progress against increasingly competitive Asian opposition.
Hong Kong has continued to strengthen its presence in women’s football through regular international competition, ensuring the Kulas will face a significant challenge away from home.
“Hong Kong will be tough, but it’s a great opportunity to measure ourselves and continue growing as a team,” Demaine said.
