Matarerega led the side at the Four Nations Cup tournament in Vanuatu last month and was officially named as captain by team management during their farewell ceremony at Fiji FA national headquarters in Ba on Monday evening.
To have the support of his teammates means a lot to the young striker who is confident that coach Carlos Buzzetti has assembled a strong side to challenge for the top prize.
“It’s a great honour for me and my family as I’m given a chance to captain this wonderful side, “he says.
“I would like to thank my team mates for having faith and cooperating with me. They have promised that they will do their best in the Pacific Games and we will qualify for the Rio Olympics.”
Fiji FA president Rajesh Patel says this side has a chance to prove their critics wrong and he hopes they will seize it with both hands.
“I want you to play as a team and prove critics wrong by delivering your best and showing your opponents that we mean business,” Patel shared with the squad ahead of their departure for Port Moresby.
“I’m sure you have prepared well and I know that we have excellent players who can make us proud.
“I ahve seen you guys play against the Wellington Phoenix Premiers, but we could have scored more goals if we played as a team – if one of you scores, the team wins.
“Play as a team, play for your country and you will achieve your goal.
Fiji U-23 will open their competition against Vanuatu at 2pm on Friday 3 July at Bisini Field 3 in Port Moresby.
For more on Fiji football visit fijifootball.com.fj

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