The final roster for the Bula Boys football team has been officially announced ahead of their opening match against the Solomon Islands in the FIFA World Cup 26 Oceania qualifiers. The Fiji Football Association revealed the 23-member squad on Sunday evening.
The team features several overseas-based players who are expected to play crucial roles in the qualifying campaign. Notable inclusions are Roy Krishna, currently with Odisha FC in India, Leroy Jennings from Sydney United FC in Australia, and Gabrieli Matanisiga of Wellington Olympic AFC in New Zealand.
In addition, local players also contribute to the squad’s strength, with Akuila Mataisuva and Sairusi Nalaubu earning their spots following their performances at the Fiji Police IDC, which was held last week.
As they gear up for the match on Fiji Day, the team aims to make a significant impression, as this match will be pivotal in their quest for qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The two teams recently clashed on the pitch in a Tri-Nations friendly where Fiji emerged victorious with a 1-0 win. High stakes are anticipated as both sides are determined to leave no stone unturned in their efforts to secure World Cup qualification.
The Bula Boys squad for the qualifiers includes:
Goalkeepers: Akuila Mataisuva, Isikeli Sevanaia, Jerome Narayan.
Defenders: Filipe Baravilala, Gabrieli Matanisiga, Ivan Kumar, Kavaia Rawaqa, Samuela Kautoga, Sterling Vasconcellos.
Midfielders: Aporosa Yada, Dave Radrigai, Leroy Jennings, Rahul Krishna, Setareki Hughes, Sitiveni Cavuilagi, Tevita Waranivalu.
Forwards: Etonia Dogalau, Nabil Begg, Roy Krishna, Sairusi Nalaubu, Thomas Dunn.