Jerome Narayan, the prominent national goalkeeper based in Sydney, has been excluded from the Bula Boys squad for the upcoming MSG Presidents Cup in Honiara, Solomon Islands. His place has been taken by Joela Biuvanua from Nadi. The squad will also include veteran goalkeeper Simione Tamanisau and Akuila Mateisuva, maintaining a balance of experience and fresh talent among the three goalkeepers selected.
Narayan had previously showcased his skills during all of Fiji’s World Cup qualifier group matches held in Suva and Port Moresby. Notably, other overseas players, including Captain Roy Krishna, Scott Wara, and Leroy Jennings, were also not included in this line-up. Additionally, Ratu Tevita Waranaivalu, the 2024 Footballer of the Year, is taking time off to recuperate from past injuries.
The exclusion of these well-known players paves the way for rising talents like Samuela Navoce from Ba, Sailasa Ratu, and Penisoni Tirau, alongside Mohammed Ayman from Nadi and Eparama Moraica from Labasa. This creates an exciting opportunity for these youngsters to gain valuable international experience.
The MSG Prime Minister’s Cup is scheduled to take place in the Solomon Islands from December 9 to December 21.
The announced squad features:
Goalkeepers: Simione Tamanisau, Akuila Mateisuva, Joela Biuvanua.
Defenders: Mohammed Ayman, Ivan Kumar, Mosese Nabose, Samuela Navoce, Gabirielle Matanisiga, Filipe Baravilala, Sterling Vasconsellos.
Midfielders: Sitiveni Cavuilagi, Aporosa Yada, Setareki Hughes, Nabil Begg, Sailasa Ratu, Rahul Krishna, Merril Nand, Dave Radrigai.
Forwards: Christopher Wasasala, Eparama Moraica, Sairusi Nalabu, Thomas Dunn, Penisoni Tirau.
This transition period could potentially strengthen Fiji’s national team, as it blends seasoned players with enthusiastic newcomers eager to make their mark on the international stage. The MSG Presidents Cup could become a testing ground for these young athletes, fostering growth and development in Fiji’s footballing future.
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