The Digicel Fiji U20 National team, known as the Junior Bula Boys, departed Fiji this morning to participate in the FIFA U20 World Cup competition in Argentina. Led by Head Coach Robert Mimms, Assistant Coach Roneel Lal, and Assistant Coach Marika Rodu, along with team manager Kartik Reddy, the team is eager to showcase its skills on the world stage.
The Junior Bula Boys have worked hard for months in preparation for this competition and are now filled with talented young players who are passionate about football and ready to compete at the highest level.
“We have trained hard, and now we have to put what we’ve learned into action. We are all very proud to represent Fiji and are raring to go,” said Goalkeeper Aydin Mustahib. Mustahib is currently signed with Auckland United Football Club in New Zealand.
“We have been working really hard to prepare ourselves, whether it’s been cool or really hot under the sun. Despite the challenges we’ve faced to get here, we have persevered and are giving our best so that we can give our best in Argentina,” said Joji Vuakaca who plays for Labasa FC.
“We are excited to represent Fiji on the world stage and compete against some of the best teams in the world,” said Head Coach Robert Mimms. “We are confident that we can put in a good performance and make Fiji proud.”
The Junior Bula Boys will play their first match on May 21st against Slovakia at San Juan. The team is expected to face tough competition in their group, which includes the United States of America and Ecuador.
“Since our qualification in Tahiti, I’ve witnessed remarkable progress among our boys and I’m proud of how far they’ve come. The recent friendlies overseas have also helped the boys mentally with this. While we expect tough competition, I have every confidence in their hard work and focus to deliver their best performances in every match,” said team manager Kartik Reddy.
Fiji FA President, Rajesh Patel, is proud of the Junior Bula Boys’ work on their journey to the FIFA U20 World Cup. The team is a source of inspiration for young football players in Fiji and a symbol of the country’s footballing talent.
“Football is a passion for many Fijians, and we are excited to see the team showcase their skills and represent our country with pride.”
“We wish the Junior Bula Boys the best of luck in their first match and throughout the tournament. May they make Fiji proud and show the world what they are capable of achieving.”
It is worth noting that this is Fiji’s second appearance in the FIFA U20 World Cup, the last being in 2015 when it was held in New Zealand.
“We are eager to build on our previous experience and showcase our talent on the world stage once again,” said Mimms. “The team’s participation in the competition is a testament to their dedication and hard work, as well as the progress made in developing football in Fiji over the years.”
With their passion for the sport and the support of the nation behind them, the Junior Bula Boys are poised to make a mark in the tournament and put Fiji on the global footballing map once again.
