Suva Futsal coach Vishal Nadan is optimistic about his team’s chances of defending their title at this year’s Extra Futsal Inter District Championship (IDC), particularly with the return of several key national players. This confident prediction comes in light of the recent renewal of their sponsorship deal with HLB Mann Judd, which will significantly aid their preparation costs as they aim to uphold their championship status.
The squad is in excellent condition after competing in the OFC Men’s Nations Cup held in Suva, with all players currently healthy and injury-free. Coach Nadan emphasized the fitness and cohesiveness of players like Nikhil Chand, Justin Kumar, Shivnal Prasad, Merrill Nand, Ramzan Khan, Filipe Baravilala, and Kitione Baleloa, who have engaged in rigorous training over the past few months. “It’s an advantage because they’ve been training in Futsal together for the past 2-3 months, and we expect them to lead the team into the tournament,” he remarked, highlighting the teamwork that could give them an edge.
Nevertheless, the competition will be tough, as Suva has been placed in a challenging pool that includes strong teams like Nasinu, Ba, and Labasa. Nadan acknowledges that every match will serve as a crucial evaluation of their preparation and tactical acumen.
The excitement for the tournament is building as the Futsal IDC is set to commence at Vodafone Arena in Suva tomorrow. Suva, as the reigning champions, made a strong impression in their very first match of the 2024 season, soundly defeating rivals Nasinu with a remarkable score of 8-0. This commanding performance, characterized by excellent teamwork and skill, sets high expectations for their upcoming matches, with standout contributions from players like Nikhil Chand and Rajneel Singh, who each scored multiple goals.
As the Suva Futsal team gears up to defend their title, anticipation continues to mount among fans, showcasing the vibrant spirit of futsal in Fiji. With the team’s readiness and resilience, there is a shared optimism for another triumphant tournament season.