FIJI TIMES – The Pacific Games football competition could feature the under-23 sides from the region and double up as the qualifier for the Rio Olympics.
Pacific Games Council (PGC) chief executive Andrew Minogue said the council would be meeting on this issue later this week and hoped to have a decision at that point.
Meanwhile, Fiji Football Association is making preparations should the Pacific Games double up as an Olympic qualifier.
National coach Carlos Buzzetti said the Olympic qualifier was initially set for December to take place in Tonga.
“We have a list of players who will move into camp in March but this will be all local players and not include the players from the under-20 side,” he said.
“All districts have been advised of this and we have players. Right now we are doing the required paperwork for the players.
“The second camp would most probably include overseas-based players and once the under 20s World Cup commitment is over, some of the players depending on what shape they are in would be included as well.”
Buzzetti said as part of the Pacific Games build-up, the Wellington Phoenix would play one game against the Fiji senior team and one against the Olympic side when the A-League side tours here in June.
He added there was a proposal for overseas games for the Olympic side which would be then presented to the Fiji Football Association board.
Fiji’s recent form at regional qualifiers has not been something that fans can say they are proud of.
The U20 side have made it to the World Cup after New Zealand gained automatic entry as hosts but prior to that Fiji has had a disastrous campaign in all age grades.
If the Pacific Games becomes an Olympic qualifier, New Zealand could feature in the competition but not be the Games medal contender.
