The Fiji national team, under the guidance of coach Ashif Khan, currently holds the second position in the premier division standings of the Tebara Nations Muslim World Cup Championship 2024, taking place at Lautoka’s Churchill Park. After two matches, Fiji, the defending champions, secured a 2-0 victory over Australia and managed to draw 0-0 against the USA, accumulating four points. They trail behind New Zealand, who leads the table with six points from two wins.
Coach Khan acknowledged the high level of competition, noting that the teams are showcasing impressive football skills. He emphasized the importance of experience within the Fiji squad, considering their limited training time together. “Defense is our priority, and we will focus on attacking strategies later,” he stated. Khan praised his players for adhering to the game plan, highlighting the leadership of players like Zibraaz Sahib, Abbu Zahid, and William Valentine. The team aims to maintain their performance, being aware of Australia’s strong tactical abilities.
In addition to the senior tournament, the Fiji Under-17 team also had a challenging start, finishing their opener with a 0-0 draw against New Zealand. Meanwhile, Canada’s Masters Teams demonstrated exceptional performances, with the Masters 40 defeating the USA 3-0 and the Canada Legends 50 making an impactful statement by beating Fiji, propelled by striker Lewis Oladuntoye’s impressive four goals.
FANCA president Mohammed Yusuf expressed enthusiasm about the start of the competition, indicating it sets the stage for another successful tournament.
In summary, the ongoing championship presents an exciting opportunity for Fiji as they strive to build on their previous successes. Their strategic approach, bolstered by experienced leadership, positions them well for future matches. With new challenges ahead, both the senior and Under-17 teams are poised to showcase their talents on a global stage. The positive start by the Masters team adds to the hopeful spirit of the tournament, promoting a sense of unity and competitive spirit among participating nations.
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