The head coach of the Fiji national men’s football team, Rob Sherman, has announced his roster for the FIFA World Cup 2026 Oceania Qualifiers taking place in Papua New Guinea. The squad consists of 23 players, including Labasa’s Christopher Wasasala and veteran Simione Tamanisau, who have both earned their places in the lineup.
Unfortunately, Rewa’s Samu Kautoga will miss the upcoming matches due to an ankle injury, while Epeli Leiroti is also sidelined. Additionally, goalkeeper Isikeli Sevanaia from Rewa will not be participating.
The Bula Boys are set to leave for Papua New Guinea tomorrow, where they will compete against Papua New Guinea and New Caledonia. The squad sees the return of Mohammad Raheem, Scott Wara, Mosese Nabose, and Antonio Tuivuna, who were unavailable during the previous matches in Suva.
However, some players, including Joela Biuvanua, Josh Qereqeretabua from Charlton Athletic, Kavaia Rawaqa, Aprosa Yada, and Etonio Dogalau from Ba, have been left out for this next round of competition.
The final roster 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.
In summary, despite some injuries affecting key players, the Fiji national team’s willingness to adapt and bring in experienced players reflects a positive outlook heading into the qualifiers. The team’s commitment and enthusiasm to represent their country could inspire resilience and hope among fans as they embark on this important campaign.
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