THE Fiji Football Association national selectors will be eyeing for talents during the five-day FANCA Muslim soccer tournament in Nadi.
Fiji FA national coaching director Juan Carlos Buzzetti together with national technical director Farouk Janeman will be keeping tabs on players who could be part of the national squad and Fiji under-20 team.
The FANCA tournament kicked-off at Prince Charles Park in Nadi yesterday with Fiji, Canada, New Zealand, Australia and America featuring in a round robin format.
Fiji FA president Rajesh Patel said with the dual citizenship now in place, players with Fiji heritage residing overseas could qualify for the various national sides.
Meanwhile, a heavy downpour did not dampen the spirits of the players, fans and officials prior to the official opening.
Chief guest His Excellency the President of Fiji Ratu Epeli Nailatikau acknowledged the humble beginning of the FANCA tournament in 1995 in Canada during his opening address.
Ratu Epeli said sports tournaments of such nature provided the platform to identify and nurture hidden talents.
"The FANCA tournaments have continued to grow, bringing former Fiji residents from the five different nations together every two years," Ratu Epeli said.
"Sports tournaments like this could provide the platform to identify and nurture hidden talents. We could very well have among us today some exceptional players who could progress to great heights in the world of sports, bringing personal satisfaction, professional development, fame and glory, and perhaps, depending on the sport you play, some wealth as well."
"I have no doubt that the FANCA tournaments are organised along these same principles and more.
"I understand that apart from soccer, there will also be golf and volleyball including seniors as well. This is very good because it reflects inclusivity.
"Fiji has assembled the best players from all over the country and while I appreciate this because it reflects the seriousness with which they hold the tournament. I have to say that I am here today not just to cheer for Fiji, but to cheer for all the other teams that are represented."
In an Over-35 match, Canada defeated America 2-0 yesterday.
Today at 6.45pm Australia will take on America while at 8pm Fiji will face Canada.