Fiji’s national men’s football team head coach, Rob Sherman, has officially announced his squad for the FIFA World Cup 2026 Oceania Qualifiers in Papua New Guinea. The 23-member lineup features notable players, including Labasa’s Christopher Wasasala and seasoned veteran Simione Tamanisau, solidifying their places in the team.
Unfortunately, the squad will not include Samu Kautoga from Rewa, who is sidelined due to an ankle injury. Epeli Leiroti also misses out on selection following a recent injury. Additionally, Rewa’s goalkeeper Isikeli Sevanaia will not participate.
The Bula Boys are set to leave for Papua New Guinea tomorrow, where they will compete against Papua New Guinea and New Caledonia in crucial matches. Excitingly, several players are returning to the squad for this leg, such as Mohammad Raheem, Scott Wara, Mosese Nabose, and Antonio Tuivuna, enhancing the team’s depth and experience.
However, some players have been dropped from this round, including Joela Biuvanua, Josh Qereqeretabua from Charlton Athletic, Kavaia Rawaqa, Aprosa Yada, and Etonio Dogalau from Ba.
The final squad comprises: Simione Tamanisau, Scott Wara, Christopher Wasasala, Ivan Kumar, Sitiveni Cavuilagi, Thomas Dunn, Mohammed Raheem, Setareki Hughes, Roy Krishna, Nabil Begg, Lerroy Jennings, Tevita Warainivalu, Mosese Nabose, Sairusi Nalaubu, Antonio Tuivuna, Gabirielle Matanisiga, Filipe Baravilala, Rahul Krishna, Merril Nand, Jerome Narayan, Sterling Vasconcellos, Akuila Mataisuva, and Dave Radrigai.
In summary, while injuries have impacted the squad’s composition, the returning players will undoubtedly bolster Fiji’s chances as they embark on this crucial stage in the World Cup qualifiers. There is a sense of optimism as the team gears up to showcase their skills on the international stage.
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