Fiji’s U16 team, under the guidance of Head Coach Sunil Kumar, achieved a remarkable feat by qualifying for the FIFA U17 World Cup in Tahiti, exceeding expectations along the way. In a thrilling match against Tahiti on their home turf, Veleni Rasorewa emerged as the standout player, scoring both goals in a 2-1 victory.
Kumar commended the team’s collective performance, despite Rasorewa receiving the man of the match honor. “Everyone played their roles, from the goalkeeper to the strikers, that’s how we got the two goals. Veleni Rasorewa got the man of the match, but for me, it was the whole team,” he stated.
Kumar also reflected on an earlier defeat to New Zealand during the pool stages, where he motivated his players to confront their opponents with renewed determination. “After losing to New Zealand in the pool game, I challenged the boys to go head-to-head again with NZ. Now, in the final, we will refocus and counter New Zealand,” the coach explained.
As they gear up for the final match, the team is committed to sustaining their momentum and taking on New Zealand once more.