The Fiji Baby Pearls netball team secured a commanding 61-31 victory against Gibraltar yesterday, propelling them into the semi-finals of the ninth to 12th place playoffs at the 2025 Netball World Youth Cup. The match, held at the Tercentenary Sports Hall, showcased Fiji’s dominance from the outset.
The Baby Pearls started strong, leading 17-5 in the first quarter and extending their advantage to a 35-13 lead by half-time. Though Gibraltar showed a semblance of recovery, Fiji maintained a significant lead of 48 points to 23 by the end of the third quarter. The final score confirmed their superiority, signaling their ambition as they move forward in the tournament.
Their upcoming opponent, Samoa, finished third in Pool B and recently bested Tonga with a 62-46 victory. The match promises to be an engaging contest given Samoa’s close win, particularly in the first two quarters, reflecting their competitive edge.
Fiji’s journey to the tournaments has been marked by rigorous preparation, strategic gameplay, and a focus on team cohesion, largely led by veteran coach Simone Nalatu. The team’s experiences in various preparatory matches, such as those against Wales, have been crucial for enhancing their performance.
This phase in the tournament follows their participation in the World Youth Cup Oceania Qualifier where Samoa emerged victorious, and Tonga and Cook Islands took second and third, respectively. Despite losses during the qualifiers, the Baby Pearls have shown resilience and determination, securing their place in Gibraltar by finishing fourth in the previous Youth World Cup.
The Fiji Baby Pearls continue to demonstrate their potential on the global netball stage, fostering hope and enthusiasm for netball among the younger Fijian population. Their success not only elevates the sport’s profile in Fiji but also inspires future netball talents in the region, reinforcing the notion that with hard work and perseverance, significant achievements are possible.