Fiji’s national men’s football head coach, Rob Sherman, has officially announced the squad for the FIFA World Cup 2026 Oceania Qualifiers taking place in Papua New Guinea. The 23-member lineup features players from Labasa, including Christopher Wasasala and experienced goalkeeper Simione Tamanisau, both of whom have successfully earned their positions on the team.
Unfortunately, the team will be without Samu Kautoga of Rewa due to an ankle injury, while Epeli Leiroti’s recent injury has also barred him from participating. Additionally, Rewa’s goalkeeper Isikeli Sevanaia is another notable absentee.
The Bula Boys are set to depart for Papua New Guinea tomorrow, where they will compete against Papua New Guinea and New Caledonia in upcoming matches. Four players—Mohammad Raheem, Scott Wara, Mosese Nabose, and Antonio Tuivuna—are making their return to the squad after being unavailable for the initial matches held in Suva.
Conversely, Joela Biuvanua, Josh Qereqeretabua from Charlton Athletic, Kavaia Rawaqa, Aprosa Yada, and Etonio Dogalau from Ba will not be included in this round’s selection.
The final squad includes: 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.
This squad selection reflects the depth of talent within Fijian football, and despite the injuries, the team is looking to showcase their skills on the international stage. The upcoming matches present an excellent opportunity for the players to step up and demonstrate their capabilities, potentially paving the way for future success in the qualifiers and beyond.
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