11 January, 2026, 8:47 pm Central - 23°C Rain

Bula Boys begin final preparations for World Cup Qualifier in New Zealand

Bula Boys begin final preparations for World Cup Qualifier in New Zealand

By Monishka Pratap
01/03/2025

The Fiji Men's National Team took off this morning for New Zealand, where they will enter the final phase of their preparations for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 Oceania Qualifiers semifinal.

Fiji Football Association says with the crucial match against New Zealand just weeks away, the squad is focused on refining their skills and adapting to the conditions they will face on the 21st of March at Sky Stadium, Wellington.

They say this phase brings together a mix of locally-based players and their overseas counterparts.

They further say fourteen players, selected from the initial training camp, will unite with 14 others from overseas to create a unified squad where they are set to train intensely and play friendly matches to finalise the 23 players who will compete for a spot in the semifinal.

Team Manager Kartik Reddy says this is more than just a game for the Bula Boys; it is a chance to represent their nation on the world stage.

He says it is about preparing the players both mentally and physically.

Reddy says it is a chance to adapt to the conditions in New Zealand and get comfortable with the style of play they will need to succeed.

He adds that with the semifinal on the horizon, the final squad will be announced before the team heads to Wellington, where they hope to make history.

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