With just three days remaining until their opening match against Papua New Guinea at the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) Men’s Nations Cup, the Fiji men’s national football team is gearing up for what promises to be a tough challenge.

Head coach Rob Sherman has been diligently preparing the team for the tournament, with a two-week preparation period.

Sherman expressed satisfaction with the team’s preparation, stating that they have covered the basics and are now focusing on the opening game.

“Our preparations have been thorough, with a two-week training period that included participation in the Fiji Fact competition,” said Sherman.

“I am pleased with how the team has come together and we are now fully focused on our important opening match.

Sherman acknowledged the history between Fiji and Papua New Guinea, anticipating a tough match and emphasizing the need for the team to be fully prepared.

“Possession will be crucial for us as we aim to control the game and create scoring opportunities, we have a good history with Papua New Guinea, and we are expecting a difficult match.

“It is essential that we are fully prepared and performing at our best to secure a positive result.

The inclusion of young players in the squad has been a positive development, with Sherman noting their potential and the hard work that has earned them a place in the main team.

“The young players have really shown some potential that why they have pushed themselves to the main squad, they have done well.

Sherman message to fans, urging them to show their support by turning up in large numbers and cheering on the team during the tournament.

Following their opener against Papua New Guinea this Sunday at the HFC Bank Stadium, Fiji will then face Samoa on June 19 and then conclude their group stage matches against Tahiti on June 22.