Goalkeeper Simione Tamanisau from Extra Supermarket Labasa FC, who won the Golden Glove at the 2024 FMF Inter District Championship (IDC), has been selected for the 29-member extended squad of the Digicel Bula Boys. This squad is gearing up for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 Oceania Qualifiers.
Tamanisau earned his spot following an exceptional showing in the IDC, where his outstanding resilience and quick reflexes received significant acclaim. Accompanying him in the squad are Labasa’s standout striker Christopher Wasasala and defender Sekove Naivakananumi, both of whom also excelled in the recent tournament and played crucial roles in Labasa’s success.
The extended squad features a blend of local talents and international players, as the Fiji Football Association aims to assemble a strong team. Notable overseas players include Stafford Rangers defender Scott Wara and Charlton Athletic defender Josh Qereqeretabua. Additionally, Nadi FC’s promising goalkeeper Joela Biuvanua has secured a position after delivering several strong performances in domestic leagues.
Training is scheduled to begin at the Fiji FA Academy in Ba on Sunday, October 29, as the team prepares for the challenging World Cup Qualifiers. As the competition nears, head coach Flemming Serritslev is expected to concentrate on enhancing team chemistry and refining tactics to ensure Fiji can compete effectively against regional opponents.
Excitement is building among football fans nationwide as anticipation grows for the final squad announcement, with hopes soaring that Fiji could secure its first-ever qualification for the FIFA World Cup.