The skipper has found the net six times and is now just one behind golden boot leader Ian Paia, who cannot add to his tally as his Solomon Islands side was knocked out in the group stages.
Naqeleca, 23, sat down with oceaniafootball.com to talk about his golden run in front of goal, his team’s chances of making London and his long-term career hopes.
How does it feel to have made the final and be in with a chance of going to the Olympic Games?
It’s an awesome feeling. We didn’t have much time to prepare, we only had four weeks. But we managed to get everything together through team work and commitment. And because of the dedication shown by the boys we have managed to reach the final.
Prior to the tournament, Fiji suffered severe flooding that affected the lives of many people. Did this disrupt your preparations?
There has been a lot of flooding in Fiji but I don’t think it affected us in a negative way. It just motivated us to try to win the tournament and dedicate it to the flood victims.
How long have you been playing international football for Fiji?
I started in the U-15 squad in 2004 and made my debut for the senior national team in 2007, I was 18-years-old. My debut was against Santa Clara University in America.
Who do you play for in Fiji and what do you do away from football?
I play for Suva and am studying business, I have two years left on my degree.
Does anyone else in your family play football?
Just my dad, he played for Suva as well. He was also a national volleyball rep and I play that sport too.
Why do you think you have been able to score so many goals in Taupo?
I think it’s just through our team work, I don’t think it is as much to do with me. I congratulate the boys and thank them because without them I wouldn’t have been able to get the space to score those goals.
What do you think of your chances against New Zealand in the final?
It is the grand final so is anybody’s game. We’re going to give it our best shot, we know New Zealand will be sound tactically and will be very hard to beat. They are the defending champions and took part in the last Olympics so we know it will be tough but we’re going to give them a good game.
What are your long-term goals in football?
Our aim as a team right now is to qualify for the Olympics but my personal goal is to make it as a professional. There is still a long way to go and a lot of hard work needs to be done but I am working slowly towards it and I think we are getting there.

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