Fiji’s young women’s futsal team will face a major challenge at next month’s 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Dakar, Senegal, with head coach Jose Gerardo acknowledging the gap in international experience but backing his players to compete with discipline and determination.
Fiji is in Group A alongside Senegal, Colombia and Ukraine, with the top two teams progressing to the semi-finals.
Gerardo says the team has been selected after observing players in both outdoor football and indoor futsal, with technique, physical ability, personality, game understanding and attitude all considered during the selection process.
He says the establishment of a national women’s futsal league has also helped provide an opportunity to identify players.
Gerardo says discipline within the squad has been very good, describing his relationship with the players as one based on friendship and respect.
Gerardo says he cannot promise a medal, but the players can promise discipline, attitude and their best effort.
The 2026 Youth Olympic Games will be held in Dakar from October 30 to November 14.
