The Digicel Fiji Junior Bula Boys leave our shores today with an ambition to defeat New Zealand at the OFC U19 Championship in Samoa.
Head coach Marika Rodu acknowledges the weight of expectations, especially given that two previous teams have reached the FIFA U20 World Cup.
Rodu emphasized the challenges ahead, stating, “This is a huge task for me as the coach of the team, as the pressure is mounting especially compared to the two teams that represented the country in the OFC U19 Championship last year and the year before. The pressure is always on us to do our best and maintain consistency, so we will focus on our performance first and take each game step by step.”
Highlighting their ultimate ambition, Rodu added, “No Fijian team has defeated New Zealand to qualify for the FIFA U20 World Cup, so our primary goal is to beat New Zealand and secure qualification.” Expressing confidence in his players, Rodu remarked, “I have faith in the players, they understand what is required of them in this championship. The boys are eager and have given their all during the selection process; undoubtedly, they will perform their duties admirably during the championship.”
“We have nine members from the previous U17 team, which is advantageous as they have played together. Most players have featured prominently for their district teams in the Digicel Fiji Premier League, thereby gaining valuable game time and exposure.”
The Penisoni Tirau-captained side opens its campaign against Tahiti this Friday at 11am and their second match is up against the Solomon Islands on Monday, July 8 at 11am and their final Group A fixture is against Vanuatu on Thursday, July 11 at 11am.
