A historic achievement for Team Fiji men’s football star striker Roy Krishna when he plays his 50th cap in tomorrow night’s clash against Tahiti.

This will be a crucial Sol2023 Pacific Games encounter where a win could push Fiji to the top of the points table and qualify for the semifinals.

It will be a tough task for the Bula Boys, to topple Tahiti who is a seven-time gold medal winners’ in football.

“I wasn’t even aware that I was close to 50 matches for Fiji,” Roy told SUNsports on Saturday night.

“I don’t focus on these things, but I’m proud to have been able to wear the national jersey as many times as I have.

“It’s a blessing and an honour for me, and I hope to make the country proud.”

Roy, a professional footballer plays for Odisha FC in India’s Super League competition. He played for Wellington Phoenix in the Australian A-League where in 2019 he was the recipient of the Johnny Warren medal.

Roy’s story is one of multifaceted achievements. Not only is he on the cusp of reaching 50 national caps, but he stands alone in other remarkable ways.

He is the only player to have scored for Fiji in the Olympics. His legacy is one of pioneering paths, breaking barriers, and showcasing the immense talent that the Fijian football community has to offer.

As he reaches this historic 50th cap, he not only makes history for himself but also for a nation that he continues to inspire with his exceptional skill and unwavering dedication to the beautiful game.

Roy will depart for India after the Tahiti clash.

He scored a hat-trick in the 10-0 hammering of the Northern Marianas in their opening clash at the SIFF academy ground in Honiara, on Saturday night.

“Happy with the win, but I think we still need to work on being patient with the ball. But, yes happy with the team,” Roy said.

“As a striker, I have to score goals and I am just happy that I was at the right place at the right time to help my team win.

“Can’t get carried away with the results. We have got another big game coming up against Tahiti. For now, we are going to enjoy this moment, but from tomorrow (Sunday) we will focus on Tahiti.”

Roy said they have been targeting Tahiti.

“We win that we are going to qualify from the group. We will keep it simple, focus on ourselves, on what the coach wants us to do. And right now the important thing is to recover because it is very hot. The boys need to get hydrated, ice-bath, eat well and rest well.”

Roy indicated that Fiji has capable strikers like young Nabeel Begg who can continue from where he has left off.

“He (Begg) is a great young talent coming up. There are a few others. They still need to work hard, but you can see the potential he has on the ball, and without the ball. He is a key player for this team, we just have to keep him fit, keep him humble. The future is in his hands,” he added.

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