Fiji’s national football team, affectionately known as the Bula Boys, is intensively gearing up for a critical semi-final match against New Zealand in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Oceania Qualifiers, set for March 21 at Wellington’s Sky Stadium. Head coach Rob Sherman has trimmed the training squad from 27 to 23 players, focusing on refining strategies essential for this high-stakes game.
In a recent setback, the team has had to contend with the loss of four players—Nabil Begg, Samuela Kautoga, Shivneel Sharma, and Mohammed Shuiab Khan—due to injuries and other commitments, a situation Coach Sherman acknowledged with concern during an interview. After a rigorous 12-day training camp in Auckland, the Bula Boys have moved their preparation to Wellington for an additional nine days of focused training.
Coach Sherman remains optimistic about his team’s readiness, expressing confidence in their progression. He noted, “So far, so good, still some ground to make up. Obviously, it’s a big challenge, so we’ll be working tirelessly on our game plan.” This strategic emphasis is particularly crucial as New Zealand’s players will only be arriving shortly before the match, potentially giving Fiji an edge.
Acknowledging the formidable strength of New Zealand’s squad, particularly with players like Premier League’s Chris Wood, Sherman believes that the extended training period has been beneficial for the Bula Boys and offers a solid foundation for success in this upcoming match.
The match symbolizes more than just a competitive encounter; it represents a historic opportunity for Fijian football to shine on an international platform. A friendly match against Wellington Phoenix is slated to act as a final preparation step, allowing the Bula Boys to build camaraderie and cohesion.
As the excitement grows among fans, there’s a palpable sense of hope surrounding Fiji’s potential to achieve World Cup qualification—a landmark achievement that would have a significant impact throughout the Oceania region. With a well-balanced mix of local talents and those playing internationally, combined with their unwavering commitment to preparation, the Bula Boys are poised to make a significant mark in this pivotal match.
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