Fiji Bula Boys coach Marika Rodu has named a 25-member extended squad for next month’s King’s Cup in Thailand.
The team will assemble for camp at the FFA Academy in Ba on August 17, before being trimmed to 21 players for the tournament.
Fiji will face host nation Thailand, Iraq, and Hong Kong, giving the side valuable international experience ahead of future competitions.
Two players have earned their first senior call-ups, Labasa goalkeeper Jitoko Vulava and 17-year-old striker Veleni Rasorewa from the Fiji U17 side, following standout recent performances.
Three key players will miss the camp: Rewa midfielder Setareki Hughes (family commitments), Suva goalkeeper Akuila Mataisuva (work commitments), and captain Roy Krishna (injury recovery).
Rodu said the squad was chosen with the next FIFA World Cup qualifiers in mind, focusing on long-term availability. Several veterans were omitted due to age considerations.
The extended squad features four goalkeepers, 12 defenders, six midfielders, and five strikers.
Overseas-based players include defender Sterling Vasconcellos and midfielder Thomas Dunn (both Eastern Suburbs, NZ).
Extended Squad Highlights:
Goalkeepers: Vulava, Biuvanua, Sevanaia, Alam
Defenders: Matanisiga, Joseph, Nabenu, Navoce, Ayman, Gavidi, Rakai, Gonerau, Vasconcellos
Midfielders: Kumar, Vunisasaro, Waranaivalu, Lavecake, Tirau, Dunn
Strikers: Valevou, Doidoi, Dogalau, Ali, Rasorewa, Wasasala
The Bula Boys depart for Thailand in early September, aiming to challenge Asia’s top sides and build momentum for upcoming international campaigns.