The 13th edition of the OFC Women’s Nations Cup officially kicked off today in Fiji, featuring eight teams from across Oceania.

The tournament presents a major opportunity for all competing nations to secure a top spot behind New Zealand, who have already qualified.

Defending champions Papua New Guinea are back to protect their 2021 title.

Vanuatu’s women’s team will play their opening match tomorrow at 12pm against a rising Tongan side, in what is expected to be a strong and competitive encounter.

Team captain Brenda Anis told OFC media they’ve faced challenges, but the team is focused on winning their opening match.

Vanuatu is placed in a tough pool alongside powerhouses Fiji and Solomon Islands, with Tonga seen as an improving football nation in the region.

This week, the Vanuatu squad has been concentrating on training sessions and strategic planning ahead of their first match.

Meanwhile, host nation Fiji, who were runners-up in the last edition, are aiming for the title this year with the home crowd advantage.

Today’s first matches saw Tahiti take on Cook Islands at 12pm, followed by PNG vs Samoa at 3pm.

Pool A matches are being played at Churchill Park in Lautoka, while Pool B matches—including Vanuatu’s—are hosted at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva.