Mohammed Nabeel, a talented footballer based in New Zealand, is on the verge of realizing his aspiration to represent the national football team. He delivered an outstanding performance as he helped the Auckland All-Stars secure victory in the Flick Hygiene Pacific Community Cup held at Churchill Park in Lautoka, triumphing over the Manukau All-Stars with a score of 2-0.
Nabeel, born in Ba, played a vital role in the team’s success, contributing to the win alongside his teammates Eber Ramirez and Nicolas Bodadilla, who scored the goals in the final. His exceptional skills earned him the accolade of Best Player of the tournament.
Expressing his gratitude, Nabeel shared, “I did not expect the award but I’m thankful to the team.” He is now eagerly anticipating competing in the upcoming President’s Cup in the Solomon Islands later this month, where he will wear the Fijian national team’s white jumper—an achievement he’s dreamt of since moving to New Zealand in 2022.
The Auckland All-Stars boasted a notable lineup, including experienced goalkeeper Beniamino Mateinaqara and players like Andrew Naicker, Abbu Zahid, Munit Krishna, James Hoyt, Malakai Rakula, Gabriele Matanisiga, and Samuela Drudru. Meanwhile, the Manukau squad included players such as Coleb Prasad, Mosese Nabose, and Dhanush Chandra. The Auckland All-Stars not only claimed the title but also took home a winning prize of $10,000, leaving Manukau with $3,000.
In the semi-finals leading up to the final, Auckland All-Stars defeated the home team Lautoka 2-0, while Manukau triumphed over USA All-Stars with the same score.
Other notable honors from the tournament included the Fair Play Award to AUFFI All-Stars, the Golden Boot for the top scorer Garbhan Coughlan with six goals, the Golden Gloves awarded to Auckland’s Beniamino Mateinaqara, the Best Manager title going to Shaneel Prasad of Auckland All-Stars, and the prestigious Golden Ball Award for Mohammed Nabeel.
This victory and Nabeel’s advancement to the national team are encouraging signs of rising talent in Fijian football, highlighting the potential for future successes on larger platforms.
Summary: Mohammed Nabeel’s exceptional performance in the Flick Hygiene Pacific Community Cup has earned him recognition as the Best Player and a spot on the national team for the upcoming President’s Cup in the Solomon Islands. With promising talent emerging in Fijian football, Nabeel’s journey serves as inspiration for aspiring athletes.
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