The Fiji men’s football team, under the guidance of coach Rob Sherman, has risen four spots to rank 146th, making them the second highest ranked team from the Oceania Football Confederation. This marks their highest ranking since 2011.
Known as the Bula Boys, the team improved their standing by defeating the Solomon Islands in the FIFA World Cup qualifiers. They have an opportunity to further enhance their ranking with a victory against Papua New Guinea next month.
In the latest rankings, New Caledonia and Vanuatu have also moved up five places to 155th and 157th, respectively, due to their successful World Cup qualifying matches. Meanwhile, Papua New Guinea has experienced a decline, falling to 171st, which is their lowest position since 2018.
Fiji Football Association president Rajesh Patel expressed his joy regarding the ranking, stating that it reflects the dedication and hard work of the players, coaching staff, and the entire football community in Fiji. Patel highlighted the significance of the progress made, attributing it to the long-term commitment to player development, coaching, and infrastructure.
He acknowledged the value of constructive criticism but stressed the importance of unity among supporters and stakeholders. “Our recent climb in the FIFA ranking is a clear sign that we are on the right track,” he remarked, emphasizing the collective effort required to achieve success in football.
Patel reaffirmed that the Fiji FA remains committed to enhancing the standards of football in the country and is focused on building on this momentum while addressing any areas needing improvement. He also expressed gratitude to the loyal supporters who continue to stand by the team.
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