As Fiji’s Digicel Bula Boys gear up for their important FIFA World Cup 2026 Oceania qualifiers, head coach Rob Sherman has shared a mix of enthusiasm and concern.
Fiji is set to compete against the Solomon Islands on October 10 at HFC Stadium, followed by matches against Papua New Guinea (PNG) on November 14 and New Caledonia on November 17. However, the FMF Inter-District Championship (IDC), scheduled for October 15-20, overlaps with Fiji’s World Cup qualifier games. Sherman voiced his worries regarding the potential impact of the IDC on the players, particularly in terms of injuries.
“We have to respect that and if they do that hopefully they don’t get injured. Playing three or four games in three or four days is quite a lot. I’m not sure where else in the world that happens, if I’m correct,” Sherman remarked. “In leagues like the Premier League, the most you play is two games a week.”
He stressed the importance of keeping the team healthy for their vital away matches in PNG and New Caledonia next month. “We just hope that they come through the IDC unscathed and that we still have a full squad when we regroup for our final preparations.”
Looking ahead, Sherman indicated the potential for incorporating new talent into the squad for the next season, stating, “We consistently review performances, and if someone emerges in good form, they’ll be called into the squad. Obviously, we would prefer to bring in players who are playing professional football, but passport issues continue to pose a challenge this year.”
As the Bula Boys aim to make a formidable impression in the FIFA World Cup qualifiers, navigating the balance between domestic competitions and international commitments will be essential for Fiji’s football dreams as they aspire for success in 2026.