Fiji’s national men’s football head coach, Rob Sherman, has announced the lineup for the FIFA World Cup 2026 Oceania Qualifiers taking place in Papua New Guinea. The 23-man squad features prominent players such as Labasa’s Christopher Wasasala and experienced goalkeeper Simione Tamanisau, both of whom have earned their spots in the team.
However, the coach has been faced with some challenges, as Samu Kautoga from Rewa will be unable to participate due to an ankle injury. Additionally, Epeli Leiroti’s recent injury excludes him from the lineup, along with Rewa’s goalkeeper Isikeli Sevanaia.
The Bula Boys are set to travel to Papua New Guinea soon, where they will compete against the local team and New Caledonia in important matches. Notably, several players, including Mohammad Raheem, Scott Wara, Mosese Nabose, and Antonio Tuivuna, will return after missing the first set of games in Suva.
Conversely, Joela Biuvanua, Josh Qereqeretabua from Charlton Athletic, Kavaia Rawaqa, Aprosa Yada, and Etonio Dogalau from Ba have been dropped from this roster for the upcoming matches.
The finalized squad includes: Simione Tamanisau, Scott Wara, Christopher Wasasala, Ivan Kumar, Sitiveni Cavuilagi, Thomas Dunn, Mohammed Raheem, Setareki Hughes, Roy Krishna, Nabil Begg, Lerroy Jennings, Tevita Warainivalu, Mosese Nabose, Sairusi Nalaubu, Atonio Tuivuna, Gabirielle Matanisiga, Filipe Baravilala, Rahul Krishna, Merril Nand, Jerome Narayan, Sterling Vasconcellos, Akuila Mataisuva, and Dave Radrigai.
It’s an exciting time for the Bula Boys as they prepare for these pivotal matches, and with a mix of seasoned veterans and returning players, there is hope that they can perform exceptionally well in the qualifiers. The team’s ability to adapt and focus on teamwork will be crucial in overcoming challenges and moving closer to their World Cup aspirations.
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