Fiji’s Men’s Under-19 head coach Dhirend Chand has unveiled a 20-member squad in anticipation of their friendly matches against an Australian team scheduled for next month. The selection follows a rigorous six-day trial conducted at the Fiji Football Academy in Suva last week.
Chand noted that the squad formed in January is not the definitive lineup for the upcoming OFC qualifiers, as some players are currently engaged with Bula FC, and additional trials will be held across various divisions to evaluate more talent.
“The trials were successfully executed despite some challenging weather conditions. Every player had the chance to demonstrate their skills and show they are fit to represent our country. We’ve selected 20 players, including some who previously caught our attention through their performances for Fiji earlier this year,” Chand remarked.
According to Chand, these friendly matches will serve as critical preparation for the team, offering players invaluable match experience and exposure. This not only aids in individual development but also allows the coaching staff to continue evaluating the broader talent pool as they fine-tune the squad for future competitions.
This proactive approach highlights Fiji’s commitment to nurturing and developing young football talent, boosting the country’s standing in international football.