The Philippines goalkeeper was overcome with emotion when she was greeted by her parents at Dunedin Airport yesterday afternoon.
Frank Fontanilla and wife Fabiola said they travelled more than 10,000km to surprise their daughter.
The proud parents came from California to watch their daughter’s game in Dunedin tonight.
The two wore Kiara’s name and team number as they waited patiently for the team’s arrival.
When the team finally exited the gate, Kiara ran through the crowd to embrace her parents and broke down in tears.
Mr Fontanilla said they told their daughter they would be watching the game but did not mention they would be watching in person.
"She had no idea," he said.
They were among a large group of Filipino supporters gathered at the airport to welcome the Filipina team. The fans, who had been waving their miniature flags in anticipation, began singing and chanting when the team arrived.
Maria Roos, who volunteers for the Dunedin Philippine Club, spoke on the significance of this event for the Philippines.
"This is history, we’re making history so of course I’d be here, we had to be here.
"We’ve never played [in the World Cup] before, so this is a big deal."
Club members planned to wear all-white to the game and have organised a large flag to display in support of the team.
Ms Roos had a message to the Filipina team.
"Go! Fight! Win or lose, we are very, very proud."
