Fiji’s women’s rugby league team, the Bulikula, is preparing for a crucial match against Nigeria in the World Cup qualification playoff set for this Sunday. Head coach Joe Dakuitoga has voiced the team’s determination to enhance their performance following an impressive 48-0 victory over Canada in the IRL World Series semi-final. Despite this commanding win, Dakuitoga stressed the importance of further strengthening their game, stating, “We need that spot in the World Cup. Everyone wants to play in the World Cup, so we’ll look at our weaknesses and improve our structure before facing Nigeria.”
The match carries significant weight, as the winner will secure the last spot in the 2026 Rugby League World Cup, joining established teams such as Australia, New Zealand, England, Papua New Guinea, Wales, France, and Samoa. This elite competition is scheduled for October and November and will be co-hosted by Australia and Papua New Guinea.
The recent achievements of the Fiji Bulikula, highlighted by their leap from 26th to 16th in the International Rugby League rankings, have sparked anticipation and optimism for the team’s future. Over the past year, they have outperformed teams like Nigeria, Kenya, and the Philippines, demonstrating their growth and competitiveness in women’s rugby.
Dakuitoga’s focus on retaining a young core of players while promoting ongoing development within the squad is promising for their goals. “We’d rather keep the core of those young players to be part of the process to the 2026 World Cup,” he emphasized, signaling a commitment to establishing a robust lineup for upcoming competitions.
As they look forward to this vital playoff, the Bulikula’s blend of youthful energy and strategic planning positions them favorably for success. Their journey not only embodies their ambitions but also represents a larger narrative of empowerment and progress in women’s rugby league, motivating current athletes and future generations alike. Supporters are rallying behind the Bulikula, filled with hope for a victorious outcome that may lead to an historic berth in the World Cup.