Minister Saukuru Blasts Fiji FA Executives
Minister shown Fiji Football’s pathway and development plan. Also, seven international matches lined-up in 2024
Friday 04 August 2023 | 16:15
The Minister for Youth and Sports Jese Saukuru is disappointed. Yesterday, he could not hold back his frustrations on Fiji men’s football 169th position in the FIFA world ranking.
“Fiji FA has to accept it,” Saukuru told SUNsports yesterday.
“I’m talking about sports in Fiji and with the amount of money been pumped into the organisation.”
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Saukuru said other sports in Fiji struggle with money, but they have ranked well internationally and have managed to win gold medals from the Commonwealth and Olympic Games.
“There are capable people (in Fiji FA), all business people, they should be able to do something.
“They have no excuse and they are not improving the rankings.
“They should do the right thing. What is right for sports? We want football to grow in Fiji.”
Response
Fiji FA chief executive officer Mohammed Yusuf said they have met Saukuru and showed him their pathway with the focus on the youth development from Under 9 to 11.
“We could go and play teams such as Tonga and Samoa and bring the rank better but it is not quality.
“Next year we have lined-up seven international matches which includes India as well,” the Fiji FA CEO said.
Saukuru, however, gave an example on the declining state of football in the country.
“Look at the Ba team. These youths are turning to rugby now, Fiji Football used to rely on them.
“This is dangerous and it’s about time they (Fiji FA) do something about it,” he added.
Story by: Waisea Nasokia - waisean@fijisun.com.fj
