VANCOUVER -based youngster makes rapid rise from Fiji’s U19 side to senior international football and professional club level.
Abdullah Khairati has turned heads in Fiji football over the past few months, earning a professional contract with Bula FC following his impressive performances for the Junior Bula Boys and the national senior team.
The Surrey, British Columbia-based footballer has made significant strides in a short period, representing Fiji at the OFC U-19 Men’s Championship in Samoa before making his senior international debut at the 2026 MSG Prime Minister’s Cup.
Khairati was part of the Fiji side that opened its U19 campaign with an emphatic 7-2 victory over Vanuatu. He also scored in Fiji’s 2-1 defeat to Tahiti, finishing the tournament with two goals.
His performances at youth level earned him an opportunity with the Bula Boys, where he made his senior debut against the Solomon Islands in September.
The teenager was given the opportunity to train and play alongside experienced internationals, including Fiji captain Roy Krishna, as head coach Stéphane Auvray continued to introduce emerging talent to the senior national team environment.
Khairati was also part of the Bula Boys squad that defeated Vanuatu 1-0 in the MSG Prime Minister’s Cup final earlier this month, adding another important experience to his developing career.
His progress has now opened the door to professional football with Bula FC, Fiji’s first professional club competing in the OFC Professional League.
Auvray, who coaches both Bula FC and the Fiji national team, has been impressed by the youngster’s maturity and potential.
The coach believes Khairati has the attributes to develop further in the sport, with the professional environment providing an opportunity to improve his technical ability, tactical understanding and overall game.
For Khairati, the contract represents a significant milestone after developing his football in Canada and earning opportunities to represent his ancestral homeland on the international stage.
His journey also highlights the growing pathway available to overseas-based Fijian players who can contribute to the national team while pursuing professional careers.
At a young age, Khairati has already progressed from youth international football to the senior national side and now professional club football.
The next challenge will be to make the most of his opportunity at Bula FC, continue his development and establish himself in the professional game.
