Fiji’s U16 Head Coach Sunil Kumar and his squad experienced a surge of emotions as they exceeded expectations by qualifying for the FIFA U17 World Cup in Tahiti. The team faced Tahiti on their home turf, and Veleni Rasorewa emerged as the standout player, netting both goals in a thrilling 2-1 victory.
Coach Kumar commended the collective effort of the team, despite Rasorewa being awarded the man of the match. He stated, “Everyone played their roles, from the goalkeeper to strikers, that’s how we secured the two goals. While Veleni Rasorewa received the man of the match title, it was truly a team effort.”
Kumar looked back on their earlier defeat to New Zealand during the pool stages and noted how he motivated his players to confront their rivals with renewed determination. “After losing to New Zealand in the pool game, I challenged the boys to stand strong against them again. Now, as we prepare for the final, we will focus on our tactics to counter New Zealand,” he said.
As the final approaches, the team remains committed to maintaining their winning momentum and is ready for another showdown with New Zealand.