The Fiji national under-19 football team is gearing up for an exhilarating showdown against the Australian Joeys at Churchill Park in Lautoka this Saturday. The team’s preparation kicked off on January 6 at the Fiji FA Academy in Vatuwaqa, where they have been diligently honing their skills and strategies in anticipation of this important match.
Head coach Dhirend Chand has expressed a positive outlook on the upcoming encounter, underscoring its significance as an opportunity to assess the players’ readiness for international competition. Chand views the match against Australia as a critical benchmark for the squad, allowing them to evaluate the effectiveness of their training in a real-game scenario.
“This match against the Australian Joeys is an important test for our players,” Chand commented. “Our preparations are going well, and the boys are focused. They now possess a solid understanding of football, and our strategies are being executed effectively.”
Chand also noted the players’ development of individual skills intertwined with collaborative team tactics, emphasizing that the friendly match will enable them to apply their training in a competitive setting. He acknowledged the prowess of the Australian team, which is expected to include overseas-based players, thereby raising the stakes for Fiji.
“Our opponents are one of the strongest teams in this category, and we anticipate them fielding some overseas-based talent,” he said. “We are looking forward to a great game this Saturday.”
This upcoming match is not only an exciting fixture for fans, but it also marks a crucial phase in the development of Fiji’s young footballers. As the squad aims to demonstrate their growth and readiness on an international stage, this event promises to be a showcase of emerging talent and competitive spirit in Fijian football.