Fiji’s national football team is prioritizing securing passports for eligible professional players ahead of their crucial semi-final match against New Zealand in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Oceania Qualifiers. This decision comes in light of the significant loss of captain Roy Krishna due to an ACL injury, which has raised concerns about the team’s scoring capability.
Head coach Rob Sherman emphasized the importance of these passports, stating that several players, currently competing at high levels in clubs such as Leeds United, Vancouver, and Auckland FC, could enhance Fiji’s performance if they were able to represent the country. The upcoming match on March 21 against New Zealand poses a significant challenge, as New Zealand is considered a favorite in the competition.
Sherman acknowledged that, despite the personnel changes due to Krishna’s injury, the overall preparation and tactical approach will remain largely unchanged. He assured fans that other strikers, including Sairusi Nalaubu and Setareki Hughes, are capable of stepping up to fill the scoring gap left by Krishna. The coach expressed confidence in his squad’s potential to convert opportunities into goals, stating, “We have a number of proven goal scorers in the squad.”
To optimize their performance, Sherman pointed to areas needing improvement, such as recovering defensively after losing possession and defending during set pieces. As Fiji prepares for this important encounter, there remains a sense of hope and determination within the team to overcome these challenges.
This situation presents an opportunity for Fiji’s emerging talents to shine on a significant stage, proving themselves capable of handling high-pressure situations and stepping into the roles left vacant by more experienced players. With the right mindset and strategic adaptation, this could be a pivotal moment for Fiji football.
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