The Fiji men’s football team’s quest for qualification for the FIFA 2026 World Cup has taken a significant hit with the announcement that team captain Roy Krishna will miss the critical semi-final match against New Zealand scheduled for March next year. This setback is due to a grade 3 anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury he sustained while playing for his club, Odisha FC, in the Indian Super League (ISL).
As a result of this injury, Roy’s season in the ISL has concluded, as he is set to undergo surgery soon, followed by an intensive recovery regimen. The 37-year-old striker has been pivotal for Fiji in their World Cup play-off journey, having scored crucial goals that propelled the team to the semi-finals. These include a goal in a vital 1-0 victory over the Solomon Islands and another in the dramatic 3-3 draw against Papua New Guinea.
In the face of this unfortunate news, Roy expressed his disappointment yet maintained a positive outlook on his recovery. He acknowledged the importance of the upcoming match for Fiji and placed his faith in his teammates. “It’s hard not to be out there with the team, especially in a game of this importance,” he said. “But I have complete faith in my team-mates and coaches.”
The team, while missing their star striker, is determined to carry on their momentum and make an impact on the international stage. Fans and teammates eagerly anticipate Roy’s recovery, hoping he will return stronger and ready to continue his illustrious career.
Odisha FC’s head coach, Sergio Lobera, also voiced his support, wishing Roy a swift recovery and reflecting on the loss of a highly skilled player and dedicated professional. He emphasized the importance of staying focused and moving forward despite the setback.
In summary, while the injury to Roy Krishna poses a challenge for the Fijian squad, there remains a sense of hope and determination among the players. Their collective spirit and commitment could pave the way for a memorable performance, showcasing their resilience in adversity.
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