Fiji are out of the running to qualify for the 2014 event after missing out on a semi-final place at the OFC Nations Cup in June and Reddy believes attentions must now turn to the next attempt to join the world’s elite.
“The whole idea behind the two-test series is to give more exposure to our players,” he says.
“The squad is dominated by U-23 players who we plan to expose as much as possible on the international stage as we begin our work for the next Pacific Games and World Cup play-offs.
“In time, they will step up and be ready to make us proud.”
A 26-member national squad has been named to prepare to meet Play Fair Brazil, a team that travels the world to promote goodwill through football and help raise the level of the game in the respective countries it visits.
The side’s ranks have been known to include Giovanni and Zé Carlos – both members of the Brazil squad that finished runners-up at the 1998 FIFA World Cup – as well as 1994 World Cup winner Paulo Sérgio.
Fiji’s line-up will be trimmed to 20 for the matches and Reddy says those fortunate enough to be selected are likely to learn a lot.
“Playing against some of the former greats of football will be an ideal experience for our players,” he says.
“The selectors have named a very talented squad and it is up to the players to prove themselves and earn a spot in the national side.”
The matches will take place on August 23 at Churchill Park and August 25 at Govind Park but no further friendlies against other opposition have been pencilled in at this stage.
“After the Brazil games we do not have any others lined up but before this season ends we will try to hold one or two more camps,” Reddy says.
“We cannot stop as we have to keep looking at ways and means to better our performances.”
Fiji squad for Play Fair Brazil friendlies
Goalkeepers
Akuila Mateisuva (Labasa)
Beniaminio Mateinaqara (Nadi)
Vereti Dixon (Nadi)
Ratu Gasaubalavu (Ba)
Defenders
Remueru Tekiata (Ba)
Peniame Drova (Rewa)
Archie Watkins (Nadroga)
Manueli Kalou (Ba)
Ilisoni Tuinawaivuvu (Labasa)
Krisneel Dutt (Nadroga)
Laisenia Raura (Ba)
Noa Vukica (Lautoka)
Taniela Waqa (Labasa)
Samuela Kautoga (Suva)
Samuela Vula (Suva)
Midfielders
Malakai Tiwa (Ba)
Zibraaz Sahib (Lautoka)
Taione Kerevanua (Labasa)
Misaele Draunibaka (Rewa)
Epeli Saukuru (Rewa)
Pita Bolatoga (Labasa)
Forwards
Roy Krishna (Waitakere United, New Zealand)
Osea Vakatalesau (Ba)
Maciu Dunadamu (Labasa)
Valerio Nawatu (Lautoka)
Tuimasi Manuca (Ba)
For more on Fiji football go to www.fijifootball.com.fj

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