The Fiji National Football Team has marched into camp at the Fiji FA Academy in Ba as they begin their preparations for the crucial FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers.
Under the guidance of head coach Rob Sherman, an extended 26-player squad has been named, combining seasoned veterans with promising young talent to strengthen Fiji’s chances in the upcoming semi-final clash against New Zealand.
“We have a talented mix of experienced players and emerging talent,” said head coach Rob Sherman.
“Our focus is on ensuring the squad is well-prepared for the challenges ahead. New Zealand is a tough opponent, but we believe in our ability to compete at the highest level.”
Sherman has strategically assembled a squad featuring a strong domestic core, complemented by overseas-based reinforcements. The team includes 13 overseas-based players, six of whom have been confirmed, while seven others will undergo trials in Auckland.
Current Squad in Camp
Goalkeepers: Simione Tamanisau (Labasa),Akuila Mateisuva (Suva), Joela Biuvanua (Nadi)
Defenders: Filipe Baravilala (Navua) – Right Back, Samuela Navoce (Ba) – Right Back, Simione Nabenu (Suva) – Centre Back,Patrick Joseph (Rewa) – Centre Back, Gabriele Matanisiga (Rewa) – Centre Back
Peter Ravitasi (Gulf Utd) – Centre Back, Mohammed Ayman (Nadi) – Centre Back, Ivan Kumar (Rewa) – Left Back, Mosese Nabose (Rewa) – Left Back
Midfielders: Setareki Hughes (Rewa) – Right Midfield, Merril Nand (Suva) – Right Midfield
Tevita Waranivalu (Rewa) – Centre Midfield,Nickolas Bhan (Iron Rose FC) – Centre Midfield
Rahul Krishna (Navua) – Centre Midfield, Sailasa Ratu (Ba) – Centre Midfield
Aporosa Yada (Lautoka) – Left Midfield, Delon Shankar (Rewa) – Utility, Eneriko Matau (Nadi) – Left/Right Midfielder
Forwards:Sairusi Nalaubu (Navua) – Striker, Penisoni Tirau (Ba) – Striker, Christopher Wasasala (Labasa) – Striker, Epeli Valevou (Rewa) – Striker, Etonia Dogalau (Ba) – Striker
Six overseas-based players have been confirmed and will integrate into the squad in Auckland on March 1:
Thomas Dunn, Sterling Vasconcellos, Jerome Narayan, Scott Wara, Nabil Begg, Leroy Jennings
The following players have been invited for trials in Auckland and will have an opportunity to earn a spot in the final squad: Semi Nabenu (Auckland FC – A-League Extended Squad), Muzakkir Nabeel (Birkenhead United), Mohammed Raheem (Island Bay AFC), Brendan McMullen (Island Bay AFC), Mohammed Shuiab Khan (Western Springs AFC),Samuela Kautoga and James Hoyt.
The final 23-member squad will be announced before the team departs for an intensive preparation camp in Auckland on March 1.
Fiji will take on the All Whites on March 21 at 7 PM (NZT) at Sky Stadium in Wellington.
