Simione Tamanisau, a veteran goalkeeper from Labasa, has secured a spot in Fiji’s 26-member squad for the upcoming matches of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers in Papua New Guinea. At 42, Tamanisau, who also serves as a Police Inspector, showcased his talent by winning the Golden Glove award at the FMF Inter District Championship (IDC) in Lautoka. His impressive performance played a crucial role in guiding the Babasiga Lions to a victory over Navua during the penalty shootout.
The squad, coached by Rob Sherman, includes other goalkeepers such as Suva’s Akuila Mateisuva and Jerome Narayan, who is based in Sydney. Additionally, experienced striker Christopher Wasasala has made a return to the national team. The roster features players from various locations, including Gabriel Matanisiga and Mohammed Raheem from Wellington, Captain Roy Krishna from Auckland, Nabil Begg also from Auckland, Sydney United midfielder Leroy Jennings, and London-based defender Scott Wara.
Notably absent from the squad are young talents like Josh Laqeretabua and Nadi goalkeeper Joela Biuvanua, alongside Lautoka’s Aporosa Yada, Ba’s Etonia Dogalau, and Suva’s Kavaia Rawaqa. However, Mosese Nabose, Merrill Nand, and Antonio Tuivuna are back in contention after missing the previous match.
The Bula Boys are set to depart for Papua New Guinea on Sunday, where they will take on PNG on Thursday followed by a match against New Caledonia the following Sunday. With Tamanisau’s experience and the inclusion of other talented players, Fiji is hopeful of securing favorable results in the qualifiers.
This not only showcases the depth of talent in Fijian football but also highlights the enduring dedication of players like Tamanisau, who continue to contribute significantly to their national team even at an advanced age. The upcoming matches will be a test of skill and teamwork, and fans are eager to see the Bula Boys in action.
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