Fiji Bula Boys head coach Marika Rodu has named the final 21-man squad for the 51st King’s Cup Challenge, which will take place in Thailand next week. Fiji will start their campaign against the host nation, Thailand, in the opening fixture.
Rodu described the King’s Cup as a valuable chance to measure the team against high-calibre international opposition and as a crucial stepping stone to tighten their combinations, build depth, and gain valuable experience ahead of future campaigns.
Captain Roy Krishna has been training with the squad in Ba as part of his recovery, but he will not join the travelling party to Thailand.
Final 21-player squad: Jitoka Vulaca, Joela Biuvanua, Isikeli Sevanaia, Gabrieli Matanisiga, Patrick Joseph, Simione Nabenu, Mohammed Ayman, Sterling Vasconcellos, Ilisoni Logaivou, Samuela Navoce, Tevita Waranivalu, Malakai Lavacake, Penisoni Tirau, Thomas Dunn, Epeli Valevou, Rusiati Doidoi, Etonia Dogalau, Shazil Ali, Christopher Wasasala, Setareki Hughes, Sitiveni Rakai.
Context and analysis:
– Prior previews of Fiji’s preparations indicated a broader 25-man extended squad gathered at the Fiji Football Association Academy in Ba, with the final cut trimming the group to 21 for the King’s Cup. Notable early calls included Labasa goalkeeper Jitoko Vulaca and standout youth striker Veleni Rasorewa, though Rasorewa is not listed in the final 21.
– The selection continues Fiji’s strategy of balancing emerging talent with experienced players to build depth ahead of the next FIFA World Cup qualification cycle, while giving younger players opportunities on the international stage.
– The King’s Cup brings together Thailand and other invited teams, offering Fiji a platform to test themselves against diverse styles and strengthen the squad ahead of future qualifiers.
What this means going forward:
– The emphasis on youth alongside veterans signals a longer-term plan to develop a sustainable pool of players for Fiji’s international campaigns.
– Success in Thailand could boost confidence and set a positive tone for the next phase of World Cup qualification efforts.
Summary:
Fiji’s Bula Boys have finalized their 21-man squad for the King’s Cup in Thailand, with Roy Krishna remaining in Ba for recovery. The squad faces Thailand in the opener, as coach Marika Rodu pursues development, depth, and international experience for Fiji’s next cycle of competition. A hopeful, forward-looking tone underpinning the lineup suggests a measured approach to growth and exposure on the global stage.
Leave a comment