Despite a heavy final-match defeat to New Zealand at the OFC Men’s Futsal Cup 2025, the Extra Fiji Futsal side concluded their campaign with pride, passion, and promise for the future.
Head coach Jose Gerardo commended his players for their courage and determination, asserting that the campaign represented a significant step forward for Fiji Futsal.
“I am proud of the boys — they gave everything on the court. They played with their hearts, and hats off to all the players,” Gerardo stated with pride.
Fiji’s journey was highlighted by two thrilling victories: a 5–4 win over Vanuatu and a commanding 4–1 triumph against Tuvalu. According to Gerardo, these results exemplify what the young team is capable of achieving.
“Two wins in this tournament are a huge achievement for us. It shows we can compete. Many of these players are new and played at the arena for the very first time — that experience is priceless,” he noted.
The clash with New Zealand tested Fiji, but it also revealed the team’s fighting spirit. Trailing 3–0, Fiji mounted a dramatic comeback to level the score at 3–3, igniting the Vodafone Arena before New Zealand regained control and pulled away.
“To fight back against a top side like New Zealand, from three goals down, that tells you about our character. That comeback is something Fiji should be proud of,” Gerardo explained.
Although individual errors contributed to New Zealand’s late surge, Gerardo emphasized that Fiji’s resilience remained the defining narrative.
The coach acknowledged criticism from some fans but urged supporters to consider the broader developmental context.
“I understand the frustration — fans want results right away, and that passion is good for football. But this is a young team. Many boys played for the first time at this level, and to win two matches and push New Zealand shows great progress.”
He also reminded critics that the squad had only recently been assembled and emphasized the physical toll the players endured during the tournament.
“We made mistakes, yes, but that is part of learning. I ask fans to support the players because they are working hard. We are building step by step, and with proper resources, Fiji can go much further.
And let’s not forget — Fiji was the only team in the tournament that had to play back-to-back intensive matches. That makes their performance even more commendable.”
Gerardo maintained that the positives far outweighed the negatives, pointing to the team’s potential for growth.
“This is just the beginning. Fiji has the talent, the spirit, and the potential to go further. With time and support, this team will make Fiji proud.”
While the Extra Fiji Futsal side did not lift the trophy, they emerged with something arguably more valuable: belief, experience, and the hearts of their supporters.
On the final day today, Vanuatu will face New Zealand at 4 p.m., while the Solomon Islands will take on Tuvalu at 7 p.m. A win for New Zealand will secure a third-place finish for Fiji, and New Zealand will finish second if the Solomon Islands beat Tuvalu to clinch the title at Vodafone Arena in Suva.
