The Fiji national team, under the leadership of coach Ashif Khan, is currently in second place in the premier division of the Tebara Nations Muslim World Cup Championship 2024 at Lautoka’s Churchill Park. After two matches, Fiji has earned four points; they secured a victory against Australia with a score of 2-0 and drew 0-0 against the USA. New Zealand leads the table with six points from two wins.
Coach Khan acknowledged the competitiveness of the tournament, praising the quality of football played by all participating teams. He noted the experience within the Fiji squad, emphasizing that despite limited training as a unit, their experience would play a crucial role. “Defensive priority is key, with attacking opportunities emerging later,” he stated. He commended his players for sticking to the game plan and highlighted the contributions of team leaders, including Zibraaz Sahib, Abbu Zahid, and William Valentine. Khan expressed optimism regarding their continued performance, acknowledging Australia’s strong tactical play.
In the Under-17 division, Fiji played to a goalless draw against New Zealand in their opening match. Meanwhile, Canada’s Masters Teams launched their tournaments successfully, with the Masters 40 side, coached by Mohammed Imtiaz, achieving a convincing 3-0 victory over the USA. The Canada Legends 50 team, the defending champions, dominated Fiji, largely thanks to a remarkable four-goal performance by striker Lewis Oladuntoye.
FANCA president Mohammed Yusuf remarked on the promising start to the competition, indicating that it is set to be another successful tournament.
In summary, Fiji’s performance so far demonstrates the nation’s strong footballing tradition and resilience. With experienced players and a solid game plan, the team remains hopeful for continued success in the tournament. The international atmosphere of the championship showcases the camaraderie and competitive spirit among participating nations, fostering a sense of community through sports.
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