Despite a credible performance by our Under-23 football side in Pool play against our New Zealand counterparts during the OFC men’s Olympic qualifier 3-1 loss in Auckland, when it mattered most, the side was comprehensively beaten 9-0 to the extent of a player being red carded and an own goal by Inok Turagalailai.
I don’t blame the players but Fiji Football Association for not playing friendly matches as the Oly Whites did prior to the qualifier. Continuously bringing expatriate coaches for the Bula Boys and Kula Girls is still not giving the desired results.
They enjoy the hefty salaries and perks, never to be matched by any of our local coaches.
What do you have to say Fiji Sports Commission Peter Mazey?
The difference is clear between Fiji Rugby and Fiji Football, in terms of performance and world ranking.
To the die-hard football fans, losses hardly matter to the thick-skinned Fiji FA officials, led by its president, Rajesh Patel, as big dollars keep pouring in from FIFA.
Fiji FA is quickly on the move to promote the local Battle of the Giants (B.O.G.) tournament to boost its coffers.
Personally; I keep blaming the majority district delegates for voting them in continuously.
Finance nor the sports minister has any say to interfere in the affairs of Fiji FA. Sorry to fellow LTE column writer, Selwa Nandan, that! am still waiting for a response from Rajesh Patel to the football debate.
May be chief executive Mohammed Yusuf can be his alternative replacement to take me on.
On a positive note, for Fiji FA, the 2026 World Cup will see 48 teams from 32 and a direct entry to the World Cup from the Oceania winner.
What more do you want Rajesh Patel?
Finally; the 9-0 drubbing saw Fiji FA give $9000 plus to WOWS Kids Fiji but it was coming from football fans who bought tickets during the Fiji FACT.
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