THE FIJI U19 team’s 1-0 Youth Nations Cup final victory against England should be more than just another tournament.
It is an event to celebrate success and build towards an even brighter future.
For the first time in the tournament’s six- year history, Fiji has reached the championship stage and lifted the trophy.
Unlike previous campaigns, this was anything but a dream.
Out with the old saying of carrying a “sack load”, a label often reserved for chronic losers, can be finally put to rest.
This group of players have shown grit and determination to compete, and believe that they belong among the best.
Great technical vision
Fiji U19’s win is the work of a dedicated coaching panel, who are committed to youth development.
Coaches Rigg Kumar, Salesh Narayan and Faiyaz Ali, alongside Neil Adrakar, Aydin Ali and the mentorship of president Neville Kumar, has built a team that reflects everything youth football should aspire to be.
And the excitement surrounding youth football has rarely been greater.
The sport flourishes when those who have played the game remain involved, inspiring the next generation, and creating growth, opportunity, and inclusion.
Never short on talent
For decades, Fiji has produced talented young footballers.
While some play simply for the love of the game, others dream of making football their career.
The challenge has never been identifying talent—it has been creating opportunities that allow those players to fulfil their potential.
The success of the historic win should not be viewed as a one off success.
These youngster’s are the future of Fijian football on the lower-mainland and the prospect of them winning the men’s Nations Cup is within reach.
All they need to do is build on it, compete and succeed at higher levels.
