Tonga clinched their place in the OFC U-19 Women’s Championship in Tahiti with a resounding 16-0 win over American Samoa today at the Loto-Tonga Soka Centre in Veitongo.
Following a narrow 1-0 victory against the Solomon Islands earlier in the tournament, the Junior Mataliki needed only a draw to advance. However, they delivered a commanding performance, leading 9-0 at halftime.
Captain Tamaa Faletau was instrumental, netting four goals in the first half and adding two more after the break. Gabriela Filimoeatu initiated the scoring, with her sister Cienna also contributing. Kuria Malohifo’ou secured a hat-trick, Anela Makaafi scored from a free-kick, and substitute Anna Pongi added two goals. An own goal from American Samoa and a strike by Crystal Sime completed the tally.
Tonga’s qualification reflects extensive preparation and dedication. Since their last-place finish in the previous OFC U-19 Women’s Championship, the team has focused on improvement through scouting, training camps, and tactical planning. Coach Mark Uhatahi emphasized the significance of playing on home soil, saying, “Being able to play on home soil will be a major boost for the girls but also for women’s football here in Tonga.”
In Tahiti, Tonga will compete in Pool A alongside Fiji, Samoa, and the Cook Islands. Pool B features New Zealand, Tahiti, New Caledonia, and Vanuatu. The upcoming championship offers Tonga an opportunity to showcase their progress and contend for regional honours.
Match Details
Scorers:
- Gabriela Filimoeatu (6′)
- Tamaa Faletau (10′, 19′, 26′, 30′, 56′, 64′)
- Kuria Malohifo’ou (17′, 45+5′, 86′)
- Anela Makaafi (29′)
- Cienna Filimoeatu (45+3′)
- Anna Pongi (62′, 80′)
- Own Goal (70′)
- Crystal Sime (71′)
Halftime: 9-0
