The Fiji under-16 boys’ team faces New Caledonia in today’s OFC U-16 Championship semi-final in the Solomon Islands, buoyed by an unbeaten run through the group stage under the guidance of coach Sunil Kumar.
Fiji topped their pool with commanding victories over Samoa, the Cook Islands, and Papua New Guinea, showcasing both tenacity and tactical cohesion.
New Caledonia, by contrast, held tournament favourites New Zealand to a nil-all draw, proving to be a resilient opponent.
Coach Sunil Kumar shared his belief in his squad’s character and readiness.
“We must be on top of our game. We can’t afford to make mistakes in this match. The boys are excited about the match and the opportunity it presents,” he told OFC.
Kumar, who named the final squad following intensive camps and trials, emphasised the importance of this stage.
“This is a critical stage in our youth development pathway. We’re confident the team will represent the country with pride and purpose.”
As the team readies to compete in the first semi-final of the tournament, the ambition remains clear, secure a place in the final and inch closer to qualifying for the FIFA U-17 World Cup 2026.
The match today not only tests their preparation but also cements a proud journey for this promising generation of Junior Bula Boys.
The match kicks off at 2.30pm.