Fiji's Amateur Soccer Squad's Journey to Qualify for the 2026 World Cup

SOURCE www.nbcnews.com
Fiji's amateur soccer squad led by manager Rob Sherman aims to qualify for the 2026 World Cup by beating New Zealand in the Oceania qualifier. Despite being amateurs, Fiji's team is enthusiastic and hopes to capitalize on opportunities during the match.

Key Points

  • Fiji's amateur squad faces the challenge of competing against New Zealand's professionals
  • Funding and resources are limited for the Fiji team
  • Manager Sherman emphasizes playing without the ball as a key factor
  • Overseas-born players need to live in Fiji for five years to get a passport
  • Calls for more professional pathways for Fiji-born players in foreign leagues

Pros

  • Enthusiastic amateur squad with a positive mood
  • Opportunity to upset New Zealand's professionals and qualify for the World Cup
  • Manager Rob Sherman's experience and optimism

Cons

  • Challenges due to lack of resources and professional players
  • Missing key player Roy Krishna due to injury
  • Difficulty in securing overseas-born players due to passport regulations