EIGHT players from Labasa and seven from Ba have been named in the extended 38-member Fiji national football squad for the upcoming MSG Prime Ministers Cup, which will be held in Papua New Guinea next month.
The squad, announced by the Fiji Football Association, was selected by assistant coach Marika Rodu, who said the focus is now on assembling a strong and competitive team for the regional tournament.
The Labasa contingent includes Sitiveni Rakai, Melvin Mani, Rusiate Doidoi, Christopher Wasasala, Ashnil Raju, Lekima Gonerau, Eparama Moroica, and Jitoko Vulava, while Ba FC is represented by Alzaar Alam, Ryan Naresh, Nabil Begg, Penisoni Tirau, Suliano Tawanakoro, Etonia Dogalau, and Vilitati Kautoga.
Rewa leads the call-up list with ten players Ivan Kumar, Gabriele Matanisiga, Patrick Joseph Kumar, Neemish Prasad, Setareki Hughes, Epeli Valevou, Josaia Sela, Delon Shankar, Asivorosi Rabo, and Iowane Matanisiga.
Other club representatives include Ratu Pauliasi Tulivou, Mohammed Ayman, and Joela Biuvanua from Nadi.
Amani Valebalavu and Akuila Mateisuva from Suva, and Epeli Leiroti, Mohammed Shazil Ali, Sterling Vasconcellos, and Simione Nabenu from Lautoka.
Malakai Lavecake (Nadroga) and Thomas Dunn, Isake Naduvu, and Filipe Baravilala (Navua) complete the lineup.
Rodu said the extended list reflects the depth of talent in the Extra Premier League and provides a good balance between seasoned and upcoming players.
Fiji is pooled in Group B alongside Vanuatu and PNG Red. The squad will march into camp on Monday, October 28.
The final travelling team will be confirmed closer to the tournament date as preparations intensify later this month.
