And national beach soccer head coach Intiaz Khan revealed that Labasa striker and newcomer to the shortened code Maciu Dunadamu will assist Mateinaqara as Fiji gears up for their opening match of the playoffs against Solomon Islands tomorrow morning 11.30am FT Time.
Speaking to Fiji Football News a focused Mateinaqara says he was delighted to captain at international level for the very first time. At the start of the domestic season the top goalie captained the Navua district side.
“This is something new for me,” he said.
“I was vice captain for the national U-20 side few years back but now given this opportunity it is an honour for me. It will be challenge for me but I believe the team bonding we have amongst the boys is a bonus for us.”
Mateinaqara urged the general public for support.
“We would like to dedicate these playoffs to the fans and general public. The team needs your support and prayers to do well in Tahiti. We will face an uphill battle from our first match but we will take things as it comes and then focus ahead,” he said.
Final 12-member squad: Beniamino Mateinaqara (Navua) (C), Sheik Moshin (Navua), Ratu Veresa Toma (Rewa), Archie Watkins (Rewa), Epeli Saukuru (Rewa), Rajnesh Raju (Navua), Maciu Dunadamu (Labasa) (VC), Sandeep Nair (Labasa), Luke Rawadamu (Nadroga), Sanaila Cagaica (Nadroga), Shalen Buisena (Suva), Ratu Josefata Dugucagi (Nadi)
Ben to lead Fiji
