England-based Peter Ravai believes the Digicel Bula Boys have what it takes to make the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
Ravai is part of the 22-member squad that departs the country tomorrow for Qatar to take part in the qualifiers.
The Maidstone United central defender, whose mum and dad are from Fiji, says the team has what it takes to qualify to its first ever FIFA World Cup.
“My expectation is to take game by game. Our main aim is to qualify. It’s not going to be easy but we have a young and very talented squad. It’s about sticking to the plan and results will fall our way,” Ravai said.
His dad, Rupeni Ravai is from Natuva in Tailevu and has played for the Tailevu Naitasiri and Rewa teams.
His mum is from Nakini in Naitasiri which made him eligible to play for the national side. He was a late call-in after Labasa’s Ilisoni Logivou who was injured and could not travel with the team to Qatar.
“Making the team is a dream come true for me. To be able to bring smiles on the faces of my family and friends is a feeling I cannot describe.”
Ravai was born in Scotland but later moved to Scotland after his dad, who is in the British Army was transferred. He then shifted to England where his football career took off. While playing for Ashford United he got scouted for Southampton and Millwall.
“When I finished high scholl, I joined Maidstone United. This is the same club Manchester United defender Chris Smalling started his career with. Making it through the ranks, last season I played for the U23 side.
“Just recently, I received a call from the club telling me that they see me having a future with the first team.”
After the qualifiers, Ravai says he plans to have a trial with Ipswich United. Ravai and the team leaves for Qatar tomorrow.
The side will play Vanuatu in a friendly on March 10 before taking on New Caledonia in their first match on March 19.
