The Fiji Junior Bula Boys have officially named their 23-member squad for the upcoming OFC U-16 Championship in Papua New Guinea.

The squad was unveiled during a Presentation Night at the Fiji FA Academy in Ba, where the team has spent the past six weeks in camp preparing for the regional tournament.

The championship carries high stakes, with the top three teams securing qualification to the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2027. Fiji will be aiming for its third appearance on football’s biggest youth stage after qualifying twice before.

Head Coach Sunil Kumar, who guided Fiji to qualification in the previous two U-16 campaigns, will once again lead the side. The squad includes players from around the country, as well as two New Zealand-based talents identified during last year’s Pacific Community Cup.

During the presentation, Jone Loga was confirmed as captain, with Isoa Baselala and Kirikiti Biu named co-captains.

The team will be supported by Technical Director David Baltase, Team Manager Shelvin Singh, Goalkeeping Coach Sanaila Waqanicakau, and Strength and Conditioning Coach/Physio Noel Augustine.

Fiji FA Chief Executive Officer Mohammed Yusuf urged the players to embrace the opportunity and represent the nation with pride.

“Being selected to represent your country is a tremendous achievement and a responsibility that should never be taken lightly. Play for each other, play for your families and play for Fiji,” Yusuf said.

Head Coach Sunil Kumar praised the squad’s commitment throughout their preparation.

“The dedication, discipline and work ethic shown by this group has been exceptional. The players are focused, united and ready to give everything for Fiji. Our goal is to make our country proud and compete for a place at the World Cup,” Kumar said.

The Junior Bula Boys will depart for Papua New Guinea on Monday as they begin their quest for OFC glory and a spot at the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2027.