Rob Sherman, head coach of Digicel Fiji Bula Boys, has announced the addition of three new players to his extended squad ahead of the upcoming FIFA World Cup Oceania Qualifiers. The new players are midfielder Leroy Jennings from Sydney United FC, defender Gabrieli Matanisiga from Wellington Olympic AFC, and defender Kavaia Rawaqa from Suva FC.
These three have been included in the 27-member squad for the qualifiers, which are set to begin on October 10 at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva. Team manager Kartik Reddy emphasized that their inclusion is part of the strategy to enhance the team’s performance as they prepare for a successful campaign in the qualifiers.
Reddy stated, “We aim to claim the 1.5 spots available to OFC for qualification to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.” The squad will enter camp on September 29 at the Fiji FA Academy in Ba, with the final 23-member roster to be announced on October 5.
Remeuru Takiata and Muni Shivam Naidu will not be part of the squad due to work commitments. Reddy also confirmed that team captain Roy Krishna will join the squad on October 5 following his obligations with his club.
Fiji has been placed in Group A for the qualifiers, competing against the Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea, and New Caledonia. The Bula Boys will begin their campaign against the Solomon Islands on October 10 in Suva at 7 pm, followed by matches against Papua New Guinea on November 14 and New Caledonia on November 17, both taking place at the PNG Football Stadium.