The Fiji Junior Bula Boys are readying themselves for the OFC U19 Men’s Championship in Samoa, with a team that combines veteran skill and international practice. Head Coach Marika Rondu shared his confidence in the squad’s preparation and setup prior to their departure.
Rondu expressed his satisfaction with the team’s readiness, stating, “Despite the busy schedule, we have finalized our 23-player squad and the boys are enthusiastically awaiting the matches.” His comments were reported by FijiLive.
The team highlights a robust lineup of experienced players, with nearly half the team, specifically nine members, graduating from last year’s U17 squad to join the U19 team this year.
The squad is also bolstered by the inclusion of five foreign-based players and countless participants in the Digicel Fiji Premier League (DFPL) and various competitions.
Rondu believes, “The camaraderie among the boys in training is remarkable and they are fully prepared for the challenge”. Fiji has been grouped with Tahiti, Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu in Group A.
Group B sees an array of robust competitors including New Zealand, New Caledonia, Samoa, and Papua New Guinea, promising a cut-throat championship to ensue.
The Fiji U19 team is gearing up to leave for Samoa, bearing high expectations of clinching a berth at next year’s World Cup. The team’s campaign will commence against Tahiti on July 5 at 1 pm.