The FIFA International “A” Friendlies Tri-Nations Series match against the Solomon Islands provided a much-needed challenge for the Digicel Fiji Bula Boys. The intensity from the opposition pushed the Fijian team to perform under the spotlight at HFC Bank Stadium on Monday night.
Tevita Waranaivalu secured the victory with a decisive penalty goal in the 81st minute, leading to a 1-0 win over the Solomon Islands amid the cold and windy conditions of Laucala Bay.
Head coach Rob Sherman praised his team’s effort but indicated that there is room for improvement. “It was a very close game, good tough opposition, which in all honesty is what we need,” he commented. “It was a strong performance under challenging conditions. We didn’t play as fully as we wanted to, but the boys showed great character. We aimed for a win, executed our plans, and made necessary adjustments before the game.”
This match serves as a preview of what the Fijians can expect in their upcoming encounter with the Solomon Islanders in next month’s World Cup qualifiers. The team returned to the Fiji Football Academy in Ba to prepare for their next match against Hong Kong-China.
The Bula Boys will compete against Hong Kong-China on Sunday at 3 PM at Churchill Park in Lautoka. Meanwhile, the Solomon Islands will take on Hong Kong-China on Thursday at 7 PM at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva.