Now in Suva, Fiji the Cook Islands National Women’s Football team are going to put their skills and preparation to the test today, as they face off with Tonga at the HFC Bank Stadium.
In a pool with Samoa and Tonga, Cook Islands will be looking to finish this game on a high as this first game will determine their next step in the competition.
Taking their first step in Suva about a week ago, the team took this time to prepare themselves for the hectic fixtures ahead, although limited on time the girls managed to fit in a friendly match against the Fiji women’s team resulting in a 1-4 to Fiji ending.
With 8 players very new to the environment coach Gary Phillips says that it’s been challenging for the girls to adapt, but they have been pushing through as a team.
Some players have expressed how anxious they are for this upcoming match, but are also very excited to step on the pitch and make their country and families proud. “We will fight in true Cook Islands spirit. Many players are naturally anxious, nervous but excited, but we will go out there with the Cook Islands flag strapped to our hearts and do the best we can” finishes Phillips.
