The Fiji Bula Boys are gearing up for a significant milestone on their road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Head coach Rob Sherman has named a 35-member extended squad, which includes 12 overseas-based players, as preparations intensify for the OFC World Cup Qualifiers.
The team will march into camp from February 9 to 23 at the Fiji FA Academy in Ba, focusing on Fiji-based players.
This camp will be crucial for assessing local talent and ensuring they are match ready.
The final 23-member squad will then be announced to travel to Auckland on March 1 for an extensive preparation camp. The Auckland camp will feature build-up matches against local Premiership clubs.
To further enhance their preparations, the squad will relocate to Wellington on March 12, where they are set to play a high-profile build-up match against Wellington Phoenix.
Sherman emphasized the importance of casting a wide net to ensure the strongest possible squad.
“We’ve extended the squad to make sure we prepare and scrutinize a wide range of players and select the strongest squad possible,” Sherman said.
“The camp in February will give us a chance to focus on the Fiji-based players, and the camp in Auckland will allow us to include our overseas-based players.”
Fitness remains a top priority for the team. Sherman added, “We have a fitness program running, and we expect all the players to arrive in top condition and ready physically for the major challenge and opportunity ahead.”
The team’s campaign will culminate in a highly anticipated semi-final clash against the All Whites on March 21 at 7 PM at Sky Stadium in Wellington.