Three overseas-based players and 22 local talents have been named in the extended squad for the Fiji U-16 Men’s National Team, ahead of the OFC U-16 Championship 2025, which will be held in Solomon Islands from August 17–30.
The team will march into camp on Sunday, July 13 in Ba, where they will undergo an intensive training program under the guidance of Head Coach Sunil Kumar.
The final 23-member squad will be announced on August 10.
Drawn in Group A, the Future Bula Boys will face strong competition from Papua New Guinea, the Cook Islands, and Tahiti.
This tournament also serves as the official qualifier for the FIFA U-17 World Cup 2026, with only the top two teams earning a spot on the world stage.
“This is a critical stage in our youth development pathway,” said Kumar.
“The players selected showed great potential and commitment during the trials earlier this year. We are confident the team will represent the country with pride and purpose. We’re drawn in a tough group, but we are focused on our preparations. The boys have a clear vision and that is to make it back-to-back FIFA U-17 World Cup appearances.”
🧤 Goalkeepers
Kameli Lomani Keresoni – Tavua
Dikshit Bhan – Suva
Setoki Serewai Vatanitawake – Ba
Kirikiti Biu – Ba
🛡️ Defenders
Jack Raiyawa – Rewa
Jone Loga – Rakiraki
Kanav Gounder – Rakiraki
Neumi Nanuku – Rakiraki
Sialesi Vatanitawake – Lautoka
Koopah Singh – Ricki Herbert Academy 🇳🇿
Jone Navuso Natavalawe – Ba
⚙️ Midfielders
Maikah Lomax Dau – Nasinu
Darshil Ashwin Raj – Lautoka
John Livani Kamikamica – Lautoka
Ryan David – Labasa
Zaman Shah – Labasa
Akuila Vata – Ba
Arnav Chand – Blacktown Spartans 🇦🇺
Ryan Achari – Hamilton Wanderers 🇳🇿
🎯 Forwards
Isoa Baselala – Rewa
Zafir Ali – Rewa
Doli Junior Nawatu – Navua
Jaryd Harry Mario – Lautoka
Saula Veilawa Muatini – Ba
Kolinio Nadura – Ba
