Dhirend Chand, the head coach of the Junior Bula Boys, is optimistic about the future of Fiji’s football, particularly due to the renewed ties with Australia. This statement follows the recent visit of the Australia CommBank Joeys, which marked the first time in two decades that the Australian youth football team has come to Fiji.
Chand conveyed his excitement about this development, noting, “Having the Aussie team back after 20 years is something we really look forward to. The bond we are building now will lay a strong platform for us to have more games together in the future.” He expressed his desire for ongoing matches between Fiji and Australia across various youth age groups.
“I would like to see different teams involved, like U16, U17, even up to U19 and U20s. Before moving into World Cup qualifiers, having friendly matches would be great for development,” Chand remarked. He highlighted that the present moment is particularly beneficial for increasing international interactions, especially with the growth of Fiji’s domestic football infrastructure.
Chand emphasized the importance of this development phase, stating, “Since we are also starting our professional leagues, I think it provides a better platform for us to host and play more national games. These matches will really help our players gain experience and exposure.” He expressed pride in Fiji’s capability to welcome the Australian side after such a long absence, showcasing how this engagement reflects the advancement of Fijian football and the bright prospects that lie ahead.
The Junior Bula Boys are using the match against the CommBank Joeys as a vital learning experience as they gear up for forthcoming international tournaments. This proactive strategy is designed not only to enhance the skills of the players but also to elevate the overall quality of football in Fiji, signifying a hopeful future for the sport in the nation.