THE Fiji Kula women’s football team has set its sights on the 2025 OFC Women’s Nations Cup and the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifiers.
Despite having only three days of training together, the Kula side produced a spirited performance against Maori Aotearoa Football Club, narrowly losing 3-2 in Ba on Thursday.
This match wasn’t just a friendly, it was a crucial test of Fiji’s depth and resilience as they prepare for the biggest tournaments in the region. With only four senior players in the squad Koleta Likuculacula, Naomi Waqanidrola, Cema Nasau, and Sophie Diyalowai, most of the team comprised U16 and U19 development players, signaling a strong focus on grooming future stars.
Head coach Angeline Chua acknowledged the importance of the match as a measuring stick for their progress.
“Our first camp will be next month in March, and this match against Maori Aotearoa was a good opportunity to gauge where we are in preparation for the Nations Cup. Our senior players only had three days together in training, but they delivered a competitive game,” Chua said.
The road ahead is challenging but promising. Fiji will host the OFC Women’s Nations Cup from July 4-19, giving them home advantage as they push for regional dominance.
The tournament will also serve as the qualification pathway for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup, with the top team earning direct qualification and the runner-up advancing to the inter-confederation playoffs.
The OFC Women’s World Cup qualifiers will run from November 2025 to April 2026, further intensifying Fiji Kula’s need for thorough preparation.
With a blend of experienced campaigners and rising talent, Fiji Kula is building a team for the future. If their determined display against Maori Aotearoa is anything to go by, they will be a team to watch in the battle for Oceania’s World Cup spot.
