FOR football to be successful today, there is much more to it than what happens on the pitch.
While quality footballers are the key of any winning team, it takes good management to bring players together and build a great team.
With the focus firmly on FANCA 2026 and Team Canada, it is refreshing to see one of Fijian football’s successful administrator taking on an important role as the team’s technical advisor.
Omar Khan, a name synonymous with local football brings a wealth of experience to the Canadian setup.
Over two decades, he worked with some of the best footballers and managing teams, in the competitive sport.
His experience in football and FANCA tournament runs deep.
Leading roles
Omar was the manager of Canada’s triumphant 2001 FANCA Nations World Cup in Vancouver and co-manager of the inaugural FANCA Nations World Cup tournament in 1997, again in Vancouver.
He also served as a technical director on Canada’s Allstars tour to Fiji in 1996 and 1998 for the Fiji Cup.
Omar has always led a formidable campaign in his position and him being on the technical panel among the novice is Canada’s plus point for the tournament in Fiji.
FANCA roots
The FANCA tournament also holds special place for Omar, given his family’s deep connection to its beginning.
His late father Kalandar Khan, cousins late Azad Khan, late Gul Zaman and Mohammed Sattar were the brainchild of what has grown into the FANCA Federation.
And it is the connection that gives Omar not only experience but deep understanding of history and what the tournament means to him.
Omar’s knowledge of the game, and coach Nick Soosma’s coaching expertise could prove invaluable as Team Canada prepares for FANCA 2026.
