Fiumae Earns First Senior Call-Up for Solomon Islands
By TIMOTHY INIFIRI JNR
Star Sports, Honiara
It was a proud moment for 18-year-old Danford Fiumae after receiving his first call-up to the Solomon Islands senior men’s national football team this week.
The teenage sensation is part of the 23-member squad that departed the country on Monday for the 2026 FIFA Series Group Three, set to kick off in Jakarta, Indonesia this weekend.
Speaking to Star Sports, the Central Coast FC product described the call-up as a major milestone and said he is looking forward to the challenge ahead.
“Firstly, I would like to thank Almighty God for giving me the talent. I am very happy and proud of myself for making the squad, and I’m looking forward to the journey ahead,” he said.
Fiumae said being selected for the senior team at such a young age is a significant achievement, made possible through hard work and commitment.
He began his football journey playing on the streets and grass fields in Auki, often following his father to evening matches with friends. He later joined a small School of Excellence based at the Aligegeo Provincial School playing ground led by Malaita Eagles Headcoach Terry Oiaka.
“I also faced a lot of challenges throughout my journey, but I’m fortunate to have very supportive parents who always encourage me and push me to do what I love most, which is football,” he added.
Best known for his mesmerizing skills in futsal, Fiumae has also shown his ability to adapt to the outdoor game. He delivered several strong performances for the national Under-19 side against Australia’s CommBank Joeys during the PacificAus Sports Football Tour earlier this year.
“I mostly play futsal full-time, and I’m happy to be transitioning into football and excited for the challenge,” he said.
With the establishment of the OFC Pro League creating clearer pathways for young talents in and around the region, Fiumae said he hopes to one day secure a professional contract.
The FIFA Series Group Three features hosts Indonesia, Bulgaria, St Kitts and Nevis, and Solomon Islands, providing a valuable opportunity for the youngster to gain experience at the international level.
“My goal for this FIFA Series is to gain more experience to help my career and to prove that I can perform at the international level,” he said.
Following his national call-up, Fiumae also encouraged other young footballers to stay committed to their dreams.
“Keep working hard, stay disciplined, stay consistent and committed, and follow the process. In the end, you will achieve your goals,” he said.
Meanwhile, Solomon Islands will open their campaign against Bulgaria, currently ranked 87th in the world, on Friday, March 25 at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta, with kick-off scheduled for 15:00 local time.
In the other Group Three fixture, Indonesia will face St Kitts and Nevis at 20:00 local time. Following the opening matches, the winners will meet, while the losing teams will also face off three days later at the same venue.
FIFA has confirmed that all matches will be broadcast globally, with games available live and free on the FIFA+ platform, providing increased exposure for participating nations, including Solomon Islands.
