Fiji’s national men’s football head coach, Rob Sherman, has announced the squad for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 Oceania Qualifiers, set to take place in Papua New Guinea. The 23-member team features key players, including Labasa’s Christopher Wasasala and veteran goalkeeper Simione Tamanisau, both of whom have demonstrated their talent and experience on the field.
Unfortunately, the squad will be without Samu Kautoga from Rewa, who is sidelined due to an ankle injury. Similarly, Epeli Leiroti has also been excluded from the lineup due to a recent injury. Another notable absence will be Rewa’s goalkeeper Isikeli Sevanaia.
The Bula Boys are scheduled to depart for Papua New Guinea tomorrow, where they will compete against Papua New Guinea and New Caledonia in crucial matches. The squad also welcomes back Mohammad Raheem, Scott Wara, Mosese Nabose, and Antonio Tuivuna, who were unable to participate in the first set of matches held in Suva.
In terms of changes, Joela Biuvanua, Josh Qereqeretabua (from Charlton Athletic), Kavaia Rawaqa, Aprosa Yada, and Etonio Dogalau (from Ba) have been dropped from the lineup for this round of matches.
The finalized 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, Atonio Tuivuna, Gabirielle Matanisiga, Filipe Baravilala, Rahul Krishna, Merril Nand, Jerome Narayan, Sterling Vasconcellos, Akuila Mataisuva, and Dave Radrigai.
As the Bula Boys gear up for these important matches, fans are hopeful that the team will showcase their skills and resilience, making a strong push towards qualification. This opportunity could pave the way for enhancing Fiji’s presence in international football, following the team’s journey and development.
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