In 2008 Roy Krishna scored twice at Churchill Park in Lautoka to claim three points from New Zealand, Fiji are hoping to see history repeat on Saturday when they take on the All Whites in the first of two 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia™ Qualifiers – OFC Stage 3 matches.
With New Zealand having already claimed four points from the first round of matches against New Caledonia, Fiji come into the fray with the goal of upsetting New Zealand’s run to the play-off with the winners of Group B.
The Bula Boys have welcomed members of the Rewa FC side back to home soil following their debut turn in the OFC Champions League and the final touches are being implemented under the watchful eye of new coach Christophe Gamel.
“I now have the whole squad. I gave rest to some players over the weekend which is important because some of them have played three games in a week. A full squad doesn’t mean I have the full quality,” he said.
“From now I just want to work well with them for the given days before Saturday.”
Gamel hopes to see a similar performance from Fiji to their last All Whites encounter at the 2016 OFC Nations Cup, where they chased every opportunity at goal rather than just trying to hold out the title winners for the full 90 minutes.
“I hope to develop the finishing. We might not have much action in front of goal on match day but I want them to play the game, enjoy the game – as it is a fantastic game – and not only defend,” he said.
After New Zealand’s dominant performance in regional competitions over the past year, coach Anthony Hudson is not underestimating his opponents but feels confident that the All Whites can continue their winning streak if they stay focused.
“We know Fiji are not going to be easy,” he said.
“We have played many times against the island teams and been consistent and now it is time to build on our last tour.”
Although the side holds some fresh faces, Hudson is confident that the new and experienced players have come together well and share the same determination to earn their spot in the final.
“We want to come away from this window and be heading straight into the final stages of the qualifiers. We are focused on nothing else.”
Extra Information:
Fiji vs. New Zealand
Churchill Park
Lautoka, Fiji
Saturday 25 March
Kick-off: 13h00
#FIJNZL
Referee: Norbert HAUATA (TAH)
Assistant Referee 1: Philippe REVEL (TAH)
Assistant Referee 2: Hilmon SESE (VAN)
Fourth Official: George TIME (SOL)
Fiji
Vital Statistics: Fiji’s last victory against New Zealand in a FIFA World Cup qualifying match was in the second leg of their play-off in the 2008 OFC
-FFA
