Veleni Rasorewa delivered an impressive performance at the Oceania Football Confederation U16 men’s competition in Papeete, Tahiti, scoring two goals that led Fiji to a semi-final victory against the host nation. This win secures Fiji a spot in the final against New Zealand on Saturday (Tahiti time), which will be Sunday in Fiji.
Rasorewa showcased his strength by breaking through the Tahitian defense to net both goals. The semi-final success also guarantees the Baby Bula Boys a place in next year’s FIFA U17 World Cup in Qatar.
Tahiti entered the match as the favorites after advancing through the group stage unbeaten. However, Fiji capitalized on its opportunities to clinch the win.
Tahiti still has a chance to qualify for the World Cup if they defeat New Caledonia in the third place play-off. The Fiji Football Association is urged to recognize talents like Rasorewa and his teammates as they look toward the future.
Reflecting on past achievements, the U20 team coached by Frank Farina made history in 2015 by defeating Honduras 3-0 at the FIFA World Cup in Christchurch, New Zealand. Players from that team have since followed various paths, with only a few remaining prominent in the local leagues.
As Fiji currently ranks 153rd in the FIFA world standings, the focus must now be on developing the U16 team for the 2030 FIFA World Cup. Despite never qualifying for the World Cup since becoming a FIFA member in 1963, the hopes are high for this young squad to carry the nation’s aspirations forward.
Congratulations are in order for the U16 team, and anticipation builds as they prepare for the final against New Zealand. Go Fiji!