Eight players from Labasa and seven from Ba have been included in the extended 38-member Fiji national football squad for the upcoming MSG Prime Minister’s Cup in Papua New Guinea next month. The squad was announced by the Fiji Football Association and selected by assistant coach Marika Rodu, who emphasized the importance of building a strong, competitive team for the regional tournament.
The Labasa players in the squad are Sitiveni Rakai, Melvin Mani, Rusiate Doidoi, Christopher Wasasala, Ashnil Raju, Lekima Gonerau, Eparama Moroica, and Jitoko Vulava. Ba FC is represented by Alzaar Alam, Ryan Naresh, Nabil Begg, Penisoni Tirau, Suliano Tawanakoro, Etonia Dogalau, and Vilitati Kautoga. Rewa leads the call-up list with ten players, including Ivan Kumar and Setareki Hughes.
Other representatives come from various clubs, such as Nadi’s Ratu Pauliasi Tulivou and Mohammed Ayman, Amani Valebalavu and Akuila Mateisuva from Suva, and players from Lautoka, Nadroga, and Navua also making the final lineup.
This selection reflects the depth of talent present in the Extra Premier League, as noted by Rodu, who stated that the mix of experienced and emerging players gives the team a balanced approach to the tournament. Fiji has been drawn in Group B with Vanuatu and PNG Red, and the squad will convene for training on October 28.
In a related development, Labasa forward Rusiate Doidoi will replace Mosese Nabose, who withdrew due to work obligations, further highlighting the adaptability and depth of Fiji’s national team. Fiji fans can look forward to exciting matches as the team aims to make a significant impact in the MSG Prime Minister’s Cup, which serves not only as a competition but also as a platform for fostering regional unity and showcasing local talent.
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