Eight players from Labasa and seven from Ba have been selected in the extended 38-member Fiji national football squad for the upcoming MSG Prime Ministers Cup, scheduled to take place in Papua New Guinea next month. The squad announcement was made by the Fiji Football Association and selected by assistant coach Marika Rodu, who emphasized the importance of forming a strong and competitive team for the regional tournament.
The players from Labasa include Sitiveni Rakai, Melvin Mani, Rusiate Doidoi, Christopher Wasasala, Ashnil Raju, Lekima Gonerau, Eparama Moroica, and Jitoko Vulava. Players representing Ba FC are Alzaar Alam, Ryan Naresh, Nabil Begg, Penisoni Tirau, Suliano Tawanakoro, Etonia Dogalau, and Vilitati Kautoga. The squad features ten players from Rewa, marking them as the highest represented team, with notable names such as Ivan Kumar, Gabriele Matanisiga, and Patrick Joseph Kumar among others.
Other clubs contributing players include Nadi with Ratu Pauliasi Tulivou, Mohammed Ayman, and Joela Biuvanua; Suva’s Amani Valebalavu and Akuila Mateisuva; as well as Lautoka’s Epeli Leiroti, Mohammed Shazil Ali, Sterling Vasconcellos, and Simione Nabenu, alongside Malakai Lavecake from Nadroga and Thomas Dunn, Isake Naduvu, and Filipe Baravilala from Navua.
Rodu stated that this extended list exemplifies the depth of talent present in the Extra Premier League, showcasing a mix of experienced and emerging players. Fiji has been placed in Group B with Vanuatu and PNG Red. The squad is set to commence training camp on Monday, October 28, leading up to the tournament.
The final traveling team will be confirmed closer to the tournament date, indicating that preparations will become more focused as the date approaches. This anticipation for the MSG Prime Ministers Cup poses an exciting opportunity for young talents to showcase their skills on an international stage, further fostering the growth of football in Fiji. With a mix of seasoned players and promising newcomers, the team is poised for an engaging performance in Papua New Guinea, raising hopes for a successful campaign.