Fiji’s national football team is gearing up for the 2026 FIFA World Cup Oceania Qualifiers, with star striker Roy Krishna set to play a key role. The experienced forward, who holds the record as Oceania’s top goal scorer, is also Fiji’s most-capped player, having represented the country for 16 years.
Fiji Football’s CEO, Mohammed Yusuf, announced that the team has been preparing effectively, having recently participated in a Tri-Nations series against the Solomon Islands and Hong Kong China. In that series, Fiji achieved a victory over the Solomon Islands and secured a draw with Hong Kong.
The Bula Boys are scheduled to depart for Papua New Guinea on November 9 for two crucial matches. Krishna is expected to join the team on October 6, with plans to play against the Solomon Islands on October 10. After the match, he will return to India, only to meet the team again in PNG.
Despite turning 37 in August, Krishna continues his career with the Odisha club in the Indian Super League. Yusuf noted that veteran players like Samuela Kautoga, Setareki Hughes, Akuila Mateisuva, and Krishna are blending well with the younger talents.
The team management, led by Coach Rob Sherman, is devising a strategy to compete against the Solomon Islands. Yusuf expressed confidence in his team’s preparation and hopes to start the qualifiers with a win.
Upcoming fixtures for the World Cup Qualifiers include Fiji vs. Solomon Islands on October 10 at HFC Bank Stadium, Fiji; Fiji vs. Papua New Guinea on November 14 at PNG Football Stadium; and Fiji vs. New Caledonia on November 17 at PNG Football Stadium.