Fiji’s U16 Head Coach Sunil Kumar and his team experienced a wave of emotions as they exceeded expectations by qualifying for the FIFA U17 World Cup in Tahiti. The Fijian team faced Tahiti on their home turf, with Veleni Rasorewa shining as the match’s hero by scoring both goals in a 2-1 victory.
Kumar praised the collective effort of the entire team, acknowledging Rasorewa’s recognition as man of the match. “Everyone played their roles, from the goalkeeper to the strikers; that’s how we secured the two goals. While Veleni Rasorewa earned the man of the match title, it was truly a team effort,” he stated.
Reflecting on an earlier defeat to New Zealand during the pool stages, Kumar shared his strategy of motivating his players to confront their rivals again with renewed determination. “After losing to New Zealand in the pool game, I urged the boys to challenge them head-on once more. Now, as we prepare for the final, we will refocus and counter New Zealand,” he remarked.
As the team gears up for the final match, they are determined to maintain their momentum and look forward to another challenge against New Zealand.