Abdullah Aiyas, commonly known as Dulla, is a talented young athlete who has made it to the Digicel Fiji U20 National team. This weekend, he will proudly represent his country in the FIFA U20 World Cup held in Argentina. Born on September 26, 2003, Aiyas is a student-athlete who hails from Sydney, Australia with roots in Fiji as his parents are from Nadi and Labasa.
Aiyas, a central midfielder, had been a crucial player for Bonnyrigg White Eagles FC in Sydney, Australia. Since his debut, he has displayed remarkable dedication and skill. Notably, he is among five overseas-based players selected for the Digicel U20 National team. Aiyas’ outstanding performances during trials caught the attention of national coaches, resulting in his inclusion in the Digicel Fiji U20 National team.
Aiyas draws inspiration from his favorite local player, Tevita Waranaivalu, whom he admires for his exceptional midfield control and influence on the game’s outcome. Internationally, Aiyas looks up to Ngolo Kante, whom he describes as a workhorse and a humble person both on and off the field.
Among his best moments in football, Aiyas cherishes the achievement of qualifying for the U20 World Cup in Tahiti last year. However, he also experienced a setback when he tore his quad during a senior national team camp, marking one of his worst moments in the sport.
When asked about his toughest opponent, Aiyas named teammate Sailasa Ratu, whom he described as a brick wall on the field. He acknowledges the challenges posed by formidable opponents and uses them to further develop his skills.
Aiyas trained with the Digicel Fiji U20 National team in Gold Coast, Australia last month, and played friendly matches against local teams to prepare for the FIFA U20 World Cup. They won all three matches, which helped them refine their strategies and tactics. Now, they are fully prepared to deliver their best performance in the competition.
Aiyas offers valuable advice to young footballers, emphasizing the importance of hard work, belief in oneself, and the support of their parents. He believes that with dedication and faith, success will follow.
Off the field, Aiyas enjoys spending time with his family and cruising with his friends. He has a passion for watermelon juice and his mother’s cooking. As for music, he favors throwback hip hop. His favorite actress is Jessica Alba, and he looks up to actor Faazil Ali.
Above all, Aiyas draws inspiration from his father, who works tirelessly to support their family. His aim at the FIFA U20 World Cup 2023 is to represent his nation with utmost dedication, showing the world that Fijians can excel in football.
As a co-captain of the Digicel Fiji U20 National team, Aiyas wears his national team jersey with pride, bearing his family’s name on the back.
“The highlight of my journey so far has been getting presented with my national team captain’s jersey with my family’s name on the back.”
Guided by his father and his under-9s coach, Charlie Mohammed, Aiyas chose the midfield position to showcase his best talents.
With his determination, skill, and desire to make his country proud, Aiyas is set to make a significant impact at the FIFA U20 World Cup, leaving a lasting impression on the global football stage.
“I want to represent my roots and my nation through sweat, blood, and tears and show the world Fijians can play great football.”
