“This is Fiji’s team,” declared Anushil Kumar, the interim chief executive officer of Bula FC, as the club gears up for its historic debut in the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) Professional League this Saturday. With final preparations underway, the team is ready to represent Fiji on this significant professional stage, shouldering the hopes of fans both locally and internationally.
Kumar expressed pride in the dedication and effort that officials and players have invested to prepare for this momentous occasion, despite the challenges faced along the way. “The journey so far has not been easy,” he noted. “We have overcome the obstacles, and the team is ready to head to New Zealand for round one.”
Bula FC’s inaugural match will see them pitted against Vanuatu United, a formidable opponent anticipated to provide a tough contest. Kumar emphasized the crucial role of fan support, particularly from the Fijian community in Auckland. “We know there are many Fijians residing in Auckland, and we also know that many have already purchased their tickets for Saturday’s game,” he stated. “To those who will be at the ground, please cheer at your loudest voice, and to those fans who’ll be watching on the screens from Fiji or any part of the world, please keep the team in your prayers and blessings.”
The match is scheduled to take place at Eden Park in Auckland at 2pm on Saturday. Bula FC will depart for New Zealand tomorrow, marking a pivotal milestone in Fiji’s football journey and the start of an exciting new chapter for the club and its supporters. This event not only highlights the growth of football in Fiji but also showcases the unity and passion of Fijians as they rally behind their team on the international stage.