Tonga’s U-16 Women’s team delivered a commanding 6-0 victory over the Cook Islands at the OFC U-16 Women’s Championship, but now faces a tense wait to see if they will secure a semi-final spot. Tonga needed a big win and hope that Fiji would lose heavily to Samoa in the remaining group match.
The Cook Islands, showing improvement throughout the tournament, applied early pressure, with Tehanarei Nga creating several breakaway chances on the right and goalkeeper Vahine Uini making key saves. However, Tonga broke the deadlock just before halftime when Kuria Malohifo’ou capitalized on a defensive mishap to give Tonga a 1-0 lead.
Malohifo’ou struck again early in the second half, racing past the Cook Islands defense to slot home her second. Tonga’s captain Tema Tonga extended the lead, followed by goals from Tyra Bagiante and Sophiana Moala.
Tonga’s convincing win keeps their hopes alive for a semi-final berth, depending on Fiji’s result against Samoa. Coach Koli Uheina commented, “The team played with heart, and now we wait to see if we’ve done enough.”
Tonga now faces an anxious wait to see if they advance.
Source: Oceania Football Confederation
