Sherman plans for tougher opposition

FIJI men’s football coach Robert Sherman has devised a strategy to elevate the national team’s FIFA ranking.

Currently placed at 168th, the team has faced criticism from fans, prompting coach Sherman to outline plans for improvement.

Sherman emphasized the necessity of challenging encounters with stronger teams to boost Fiji’s ranking.

“This year’s game we are all committed, Nations Cup then we move to the Olympic qualifiers. We want to look at the nonOFC window, obviously we need some challenge,” he said.

“In terms of the ranking, we will need to plan out our program. Probably making sure that we are capable to play teams from Africa, teams from Asia, we need to experience that.”

Addressing the upcoming double-header against the Solomon Islands next month, Sherman expressed confidence in gaining valuable points from Honiara, as Solomon Islands holds a higher rank at 131.

“Playing Solomon Islands in a double header next month will definitely help team Fiji. This stage playing Solomon who is ranked more then us, will give us more points and our ranking can go up,” Sherman added.

Sherman’s research revealed that the top 100 teams in the ranking boast professional leagues. However, Fiji’s national team faces challenges in recruiting professional players to enhance competition.

Currently, only Roy Krishna is a professional player in Team Fiji, as others face restrictions due to passport laws. Sherman emphasised the importance of attracting more professionals to improve the team’s standing.

“There are professional players but due to the passport laws they can’t, it’s very frustrating from my point of view.”

Expressing frustration over passport-related restrictions, Sherman acknowledged the need for stronger tests as the national side prepares for the Olympic qualifiers.

“We need to test ourselves before we get into the qualifiers.”