HERE WE GO: SI SQUAD SET FOR FIFA World Cup 2026—Oceania Qualifiers

Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) has announced the Solomon Islands’ Men’s National Football squad for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026—Oceania Qualifiers in a Press Conference ahead of the team’s departure for Fiji this weekend.

Since taking over as head coach of the men’s football team, Josh Smith has been making significant changes, focusing on building a balanced squad that combines youthful energy with seasoned experience.

Former National U19 and Real Kakamora 18-year-old defender, Gordon Iro will be making his senior debut, while Laugu United’s midfielder, Ben Fox and Paul Francis have been the latest players recalled to the set-up.

The head coach’s approach blends the raw potential of young talent eager to prove themselves with the wisdom and leadership of veteran players, creating a dynamic team chemistry. Smith’s strategy emphasizes long-term development, giving younger players opportunities to grow while leveraging the expertise of experienced athletes to maintain stability and guide the team’s overall performance.

This balanced blend has already begun to reshape the team’s identity, fostering competitiveness and unity on the field.

This time, Southern United’s coach, Tibon Oge, is taking up the Assistant Coach role.

Smith appears ready for a strong campaign, confident that with the support of the team’s staff—such as veteran forward Benjamin Totori and Strength & Conditioning Coach, Colombian Juan Camilo Marin—the preparation process has fostered solid chemistry among the players.

The team faces a tough challenge next week on the host nation on Thursday 10 October at 6:00 pm at the HFC Stadium., as they go up against a formidable Fiji squad.

Known for their physicality and tactical discipline, Fiji has consistently been a force to reckon with in the region, making this match a true test of the team’s progress under Coach Josh Smith.

The journey leading up to the game hasn’t been easy, with intense training sessions and the pressure of building team chemistry in a short time. While the mix of young talent and experienced players offers potential, they’ll need to be at their best to compete with Fiji’s strength, speed, and cohesion.

It’s a high-stakes encounter, and though the road ahead is challenging, the team is determined to rise to the occasion and prove themselves on the field.

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