PARIS – Fiji will play-off for 17th-32nd position after it lost on penalties to Netherlands and Belgium in group play on Match Day 1 at the Danone Nations Cup today. Fiji were more than equal for the Dutch challenge for the duration of normal time as the match ended 0-0.
But players from both countries missed vital spot-kicks during a tense shoot-out but Netherlands prevailed 3-2.
Fiji recovered from the disappointment when it beat Qatar 2-0. The victory boosted confidence in Farouk Janeman’s wide-eyed youngsters but it wasn’t enough as Belgium held on for a 0-0 draw before finally winning 5-4 on penalties.
After a tiring three matches Fiji were no match for Group A winners Switzerland, going down 2-0.
Fiji’s defeat meant a third place finish in the group stage behind Belgium and the Swiss.
Fiji’s next match is against Indonesia at 19h25 tonight (Fiji Time).
Janeman’s team could yet face any of Ireland, Qatar, Spain, Portugal, Mexico, China, Guatemala, Poland, Romania, Canada, USA, Morocco, Uruguay, or Egypt.
For the latest news from Paris and the Danone Nations Cup please visit www.danonenationscup.com
Photographs courtesy www.ftpimacom.com
GROUP A – FINAL STANDINGS
1. Switzerland
2. Belgium
3. FIJI
4. Qatar
5. Netherlands