THINGS are not looking good for the under-prepared national futsal team ahead of next week's Oceania Championship at the Vodafone Arena.
Fiji finished fifth in the six-team championship last year and early writings on the wall indicate another disastrous outing.
The national team enters the championship as underdogs with Solomon Islands and Vanuatu the early favourites
Coach Intiaz Khan is, however, optimistic his young brigade would rise to the occasion and defy the odds.
"The critics can say whatever they like.
"Solomon Islands and Vanuatu are better prepared than us so it's a big challenge to beat them," he said.
"In Fiji there is no major futsal development.
"We're mostly using outdoor players but on paper, we're a stronger team compared to last year."
Khan said players were determined and focused.
"They know we're not the champion and are prepared to play with all their heart," he said.
"The players seem ready and if they click in the first game then we should not have problems.
"Much depends on the players, how they go and play in the court."
In his second year as national futsal team coach, Khan said he needed more time to build a winnning combination.
"I've learnt a lot since last year expecially about our weaknesses but one week with the team is not enough," he said.
"I know our weakness but five training sessions are not enough.
At least 10 sessions are needed to make-up for 50 per cent of the weankesses.
"I would have loved to have the team in camp for up to two or three weeks."
Khan will name Fiji's captain in the weekend.
DAV College, Ba student Christopher Kumar Junior has replaced Osea Vakatalasau in the team.
The youngster played for the champion West II team in the Fiji FACT Under - 18 competition.
The Oceania Futsal Championship will be played from July 6-10.