Fiji’s national futsal coach, Jose Gerardo, has expressed admiration for the extraordinary skill and competition displayed during the Extra Futsal IDC 2025 tournament, hailing it as one of the most competitive in recent years. Over the four-day event at the Vodafone Arena in Suva, various district teams showcased impressive performances, with major advancements noted in player fitness and technical skills.
Gerardo emphasized the significant improvement in the standard of futsal, stating, “Teams are more organized, players are faster, and technically, the game is growing.” He recognizes the emergence of several talented players who could potentially be integrated into the future national squad. This proactive identification of talent comes as Fiji aims to strengthen its roster for upcoming regional and international tournaments.
The coach also lauded a new player eligibility rule implemented by the Fiji Football Association, requiring athletes to commit exclusively to either futsal or traditional football. Gerardo believes this move is crucial for the development of both sports, as it allows players to concentrate fully on their chosen discipline, enhancing professionalism and consistency at the national level.
The tournament itself served as an essential platform for talent identification, culminating in defending champions Suva Futsal retaining their title with a decisive 3–0 victory over Tailevu Naitasiri Futsal in the Grand Final. Gerardo expressed his gratitude to the Fiji Football Association and Extra Supermarket for their continued support in fostering futsal’s growth in the nation.
“This tournament shows that futsal is alive and growing in Fiji. The players, coaches, and fans deserve a lot of credit,” he remarked, highlighting the vibrant environment surrounding the sport.
As Fiji looks toward the future, there is a sense of hope and enthusiasm surrounding the potential for futsal development, bolstered by the positive changes being implemented and the support from various stakeholders in the community.
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