Fiji’s Men’s Under-19 head coach Dhirend Chand has announced a 20-member squad as they gear up for friendly matches against an Australian team next month. The selection follows an intensive six-day trial held at the Fiji Football Academy in Suva last week, demonstrating the commitment to building a competitive team.
Chand clarified that this squad, initially formed in January, is still in flux and not the final version for the upcoming OFC qualifiers. Several players are currently involved with Bula FC, and additional trials will be conducted to spot more talent across various divisions.
“The trials were successfully carried out despite some challenging weather conditions. Each player had the opportunity to showcase their skills and prove their fitness to represent our country. We’ve chosen 20 players, including some who previously impressed us with their performances for Fiji earlier this year,” Chand stated.
These upcoming friendly matches are crucial for the team’s preparation, providing players with valuable match experience and exposure. This not only contributes to the individual development of the players but also assists the coaching staff in assessing a broader talent pool as they work on finalizing the squad for future competitions.
This proactive strategy reflects Fiji’s dedication to fostering young football talent, which in turn helps boost the country’s profile in international football. The initiative not only prepares the players for upcoming challenges but also strengthens the foundation for the growth of football in Fiji.