The race to the Olympics is building up and teams have taken necessary measures to ensure that the best combination is shaped before the final squads are named. Our men’s soccer team is in Brazil in an ideal build up to the Olympics. Pooled with Korea, Germany and Mexico, we should not expect any mercy shown by these football giants. Our results in Brazil may raise eyebrows but these games are important to gauge our levels of preparation, fitness and whether we are capable of competing at the highest level. Two losses, eight goals conceded and two goals scored. The rest is anyone’s guess!

The national 7s team received a boost ahead of their tour to the final leg of the series. The French Embassy waived fees as part of their well wishes. The five overseas-based players- Viriviri, Wise, Nakarawa, Semi and Tuisova are no strangers to 7s rugby and they have been part of our previous victories. Therefore, expectations will be high among rugby fans for the team to pull a victory in one tournament and successfully defend the series title we won with flying colours last year. For me, Ben is the best coach in the series. He has moulded our 7s team into a gem, a highly-competitive team.

On the other hand, Titch has also named a powerful 16-member squad for the final legs. Neil Powell, Simon Amor, Andy Friend and Mike Friday are also expected to name star-studded sides for the last two legs. Not to forget our Kenyan friends who will be up for some more upsets and victories.

The month of May will determine the fate of our 7s team. Like many other ardent fans, I am keeping my fingers crossed and praying for that special win. Our best wishes are with Ben and our band of Fijian warriors. Give your best shot and leave no stone unturned in your preparations. My Fiji, all the way!