Veteran Labasa goalkeeper Simione Tamanisau has secured a spot in Fiji’s 26-member squad for the upcoming matches in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, set to take place in Papua New Guinea. At 42 years old, Tamanisau, who also serves as a Police Inspector, recently earned the Golden Glove award during the FMF Inter District Championship (IDC) held in Lautoka, where he led the Babasiga Lions to victory against Navua in a penalty shootout.
Hailing from Naisaumua in Tailevu, Tamanisau is expected to play a crucial role for the team, which is coached by Rob Sherman and started strong with a 1-0 win against their first opponent in the qualifiers held in Suva on October 10.
The squad also includes other goalkeepers like Suva’s Akuila Mateisuva and Jerome Narayan, who is based in Sydney. Additionally, Labasa’s seasoned striker Christopher Wasasala has been recalled to the national team. The lineup features several overseas players, including Wellington-based Gabriel Matanisiga, Mohammed Raheem, Captain Roy Krishna, Auckland’s Nabil Begg, Sydney United midfielder Leroy Jennings, and London-based defender Scott Wara. Notably absent from the squad are young player Josh Laqeretabua and Nadi goalkeeper Joela Biuvanua.
Several other prominent players like Lautoka’s Aporosa Yada, Ba’s Etonia Dogalau, and Suva’s Kavaia Rawaqa have also not been included, while Mosese Nabose, Merrill Nand, and Antonio Tuivuna return after sitting out the first match.
The Bula Boys are scheduled to travel to Papua New Guinea on Sunday, ready to face PNG on Thursday and New Caledonia the following Sunday.
The confidence and experience Tamanisau brings to the squad could prove vital as Fiji seeks to advance in the World Cup qualifiers. His performance, along with the blend of seasoned and youthful talent, indicates a promising outlook for the team in their upcoming challenges.
A hopeful note for the fans is that Fiji’s campaign in the qualifiers presents an opportunity for growth and potential success on the international stage.
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