“With them, we felt strong”: Kiribati captain’s heartfelt tribute to the nation following historic IDC triumph

Kiribati national team captain Teweia Butibara has sent a heartfelt message to his country following Te Itei’s historic triumph at the 2026 FMF Inter-District Championship in Fiji. After leading his side to the Premier Division title with a commanding 6-1 victory over Seaqaqa, the 27-year-old expressed his gratitude to the supporters, coaches and teammates who contributed to an unforgettable achievement for Kiribati football.

Speaking exclusively to Oceania Football Center, Butibara was particularly keen to acknowledge the I-Kiribati community living in Suva, whose presence throughout the tournament provided encouragement to the players. From the opening defeat against Seaqaqa to the celebrations following Sunday’s final, the supporters remained alongside the national team, something the captain wanted to recognise publicly.

“We have not forgotten our supporters from Kiribati who live in Suva. They gave us their full support from our first game until the end of the tournament. Without them, we players would have been nothing, but with them, we felt strong on the field,” Butibara told OFCe.

His appreciation extended beyond the supporters who attended the matches. Asked to deliver a message to the people of Kiribati following the team’s remarkable success, Butibara chose to address his fellow citizens in his native language, Te Taetae ni Kiribati. His words reflected the importance of faith, teamwork and the collective efforts behind the victory, while also expressing his hope that I-Kiribati communities at home and overseas would take pride in what the players had achieved.

Butibara’s original message in Te Taetae ni Kiribati:

“Bn banau n karabaa Uean te Maiu gkai ea tia n raoniira inanon moan rokora iaon te tabo aio n karokoa te tai ae tia roko n tokina iai nd tai aio.

Bn banau n karabwaia ara coaches ma ara officials n kabane ake gaia nab raora n managa nd tai aio ibukin botumwakaia n karaoii tibagaia ibukin Ana team Kiribati ao aia tatauraoi n tainako ibukin kainanoia ataeinimwane n kabane.

Ia karabwaia nab ara coaches Pine Iosefa ao Tetabo Manaima ake gaia raoi gkai taan kabuta raoi aron waakin Ana team Kiribati n te tai aio. N akea aia babaronga ma aia katauraoi ibukira ao I taku ba ti bn aki kona n tokanikai ma ti karabwaa nanoia gkai a tia n angaa gaiia ba Ana kabanei korakoraia ibukin kairan Ana tiim m butibooro Kiribati.

Te kabane bn banau n karabwaia kain au team ae Te Itei ibukin nanoia n ogotaeka ao n nanorinano ao n aantaeka n babaire ake a bane n karaoaki ibukira.

Au kantaniga ba te nati n Kiribati iaon Kiribati ao te nati n Kiribati ake I itinanikun Kiribati au kantaniga ba a bn rang rauaki nanoia ao n torobaki nanoia n aron d kekeiaki ae a tia n karaoia ataeinimwane aikai ibukin abaia ae Kiribati.”

English translation of Butibara’s message:

“First, I would like to thank the Lord of Life, who has been with us from the moment we arrived here until the conclusion of this tournament.

I would also like to thank all our coaches and officials who travelled with us throughout this journey. I am grateful for their contributions, their hard work for Team Kiribati and their efforts to prepare everything and look after the needs of all our players.

I would especially like to thank our coaches, Pine Iosefa and Tetabo Manaima, who guided and managed the Kiribati team throughout this tournament. Without their planning and preparation, I do not think we could have achieved this success. I am truly grateful to them for giving their time, energy and all their efforts to lead our team and support Kiribati football.

Finally, I want to thank my teammates, Te Itei, for their understanding, humility, discipline and willingness to follow the instructions and arrangements made for us.

My hope is that all the people of Kiribati, both those living in our country and those living overseas, will feel great happiness and pride in what these young men have accomplished for our nation, Kiribati.”

The captain’s message comes after an extraordinary week for a national team that arrived in Fiji seeking valuable competitive experience and departed as champions. Kiribati suffered a 4-2 defeat to Seaqaqa in their opening match, with Butibara scoring the country’s first-ever goal at the IDC. However, Te Itei responded with a 6-0 victory over Nadroga, followed by a 3-1 semi-final success against Fiji’s Under-17 national team, before taking revenge against Seaqaqa in the final at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva on October 11.

The title carries major considerable significance for Kiribati, where the development of football continues to face challenges related to infrastructure and playing conditions. Butibara had previously explained to OFCe how many players in his country grow up playing on sandy surfaces, making the experience of competing on proper football pitches in Fiji an important opportunity for the squad.

Beyond the results, the captain’s message highlights the connection between the national team and the I-Kiribati communities who followed its journey. The support received in Suva, combined with the efforts of the coaching staff and players, helped turn Kiribati’s first IDC appearance into a championship-winning campaign.

For Butibara, who began the tournament by scoring a historic goal and ended it by lifting the trophy, the achievement is something he wants every I-Kiribati person, whether living in the islands or elsewhere in the world, to celebrate with pride.

Misiwani Nairube dedicates Ba’s IDC triumph to cousin after emotional message about criticism and family support

Ba goalkeeper Misiwani Nairube has shared an emotional message following the Men in Black’s historic triumph at the 2026 Inter-District Championship (IDC), responding to those who doubted his ability to continue playing and dedicating the victory to his cousin. His words carry particular significance following the controversial absence of fellow goalkeeper Isikeli Sevanaia Junior, who disappeared from Ba’s squad after the tournament’s opening match.

Nairube played an important role in Ba’s successful IDC campaign, taking over as the team’s starting goalkeeper after Sevanaia featured in the 2-1 opening victory over Lautoka. He subsequently helped the side reach the final with a decisive penalty save against Labasa in the semi-finals before keeping a clean sheet in Sunday’s 2-0 victory over Navua, which completed Ba’s sweep of Fiji’s four major domestic titles in 2026.

Following the victory, Nairube took to Facebook to express his gratitude while acknowledging the criticism he had faced during his career.

“Thanking God for everything. Lots of people didn’t believe in me, saying I’m old and I cannot do it anymore, but I thank the people who stood beside me and told me to always keep believing in myself,” he wrote.

However, the most personal part of his message was directed towards someone close to him. Nairube dedicated the championship to his tavale, a Fijian term referring to a cousin, while emphasising the importance of family support during difficult moments.

“I dedicate this win to my tavale. Lots of people said bad things about you. If the world goes against you, just remember that your family will always be standing beside you.”

Although Nairube did not mention a name in his Facebook post, the dedication appears to refer to Isikeli Sevanaia Junior, his fellow goalkeeper at Ba. The family relationship between the two players was previously confirmed by Nairube himself, who spoke proudly about his cousin following Ba’s Battle of the Giants victory in September. On that occasion, Sevanaia had been recognised as the tournament’s best goalkeeper, and Nairube publicly congratulated him on his performances.

Their situation changed considerably during the IDC. Sevanaia arrived at the tournament having recently won the Golden Glove award with Fiji at the MSG Prime Minister’s Cup, but disappeared from Ba’s matchday squad after playing against Lautoka on October 6. His absence coincided with Fiji FA’s announcement that six players had been suspended after returning positive drug-test results on the opening day. However, the association has not publicly identified Sevanaia among those suspended, leaving the official reason for his absence unconfirmed.

With Sevanaia unavailable, Nairube assumed responsibility between the posts and delivered when Ba needed him most. His penalty save against Lekima Gonerau in the semi-final shootout against Labasa was particularly important, allowing Ba to recover from an early missed penalty and eventually secure qualification for the championship decider.

The experienced goalkeeper also reserved words of appreciation for his family and teammates, recognising those who continued supporting him despite the criticism.

“To Mum and my daughter, thank you two for always being my biggest fans. Love this club so much. To my brothers in black, love you all,” he added.

For Nairube, the IDC victory represented more than another trophy with Ba. Having faced doubts about his age and ability to continue competing, he finished the tournament as an important figure in one of the club’s greatest seasons.

Ba’s fourth major title of 2026 will be remembered for its historical significance, but Nairube’s message also revealed the personal circumstances behind the achievement — a goalkeeper answering his critics on the field while expressing solidarity with a family member during a difficult period.

All White Sarpreet Singh scores first Farense goal as Portuguese club climbs to third place

New Zealand international Sarpreet Singh scored his first goal for SC Farense on Sunday, 11 October, helping the Portuguese side secure a 2-1 home victory over CD Feirense in the seventh round of Liga Portugal 2. The result lifted Farense to third place in the standings, strengthening their position in the race for promotion to Portugal’s top division.

The 27-year-old attacking midfielder found the net five minutes into the second half at the Estádio de São Luís in Faro. After Feirense goalkeeper Diego Altube failed to hold a cross into the penalty area, Singh reacted quickly to the rebound and finished with his left foot to double the home side’s advantage. Gonçalo Silva had opened the scoring in the 29th minute with a header from a Mattheus Oliveira free kick. Feirense reduced the deficit through Jair Monteiro in the 80th minute, but Farense held on to collect all three points.

Singh joined Farense in July after representing New Zealand at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where he featured in all three of the All Whites’ group-stage matches. His arrival marked a return to Portuguese football, having previously spent the 2024/25 season with União de Leiria, scoring four goals in 20 league appearances. He also returned to Wellington Phoenix on loan earlier this year, following a spell with Serbian club TSC Bačka Topola.

The former Bayern Munich midfielder has been gaining more playing time at Farense and also registered an assist in their previous league match, a 4-0 victory over Chaves. With his first goal now secured, Singh has contributed directly to goals in consecutive league appearances as Farense continue their pursuit of promotion.

The victory was Farense’s second consecutive league win and took their tally to 14 points from seven matches, placing them third behind Lusitânia de Lourosa and Sporting CP B.

From Labasa to Ba: Golden Ball winner Ilisoni Logaivau caps dream season with historic quadruple

Ilisoni Logaivau’s decision to leave Labasa for Ba at the beginning of 2026 has culminated in one of the most remarkable seasons of his football career. The experienced midfielder was named the Extra Premier League Golden Ball winner on Friday, October 9, recognising his contribution to Ba’s return to the top of Fijian league football. Just two days later, he captained the Men in Black to their fourth major domestic trophy of the year, completing a historic clean sweep with a 2-0 victory over Navua in the FMF Inter-District Championship final.

The individual recognition arrived during the Fiji Football Association’s Extra League Awards Night, held at the Fiji FA Academy in Suva. Ba were officially presented with their 22nd national league championship trophy, while Logaivau received the competition’s highest individual honour after establishing himself as an important figure in the team’s successful campaign.

For the midfielder, the achievement represented the culmination of a major career decision made only nine months earlier.

Logaivau had spent several seasons representing Labasa, one of Ba’s traditional rivals, before applying to join the Men in Black during the January transfer window. His move formed part of a significant recruitment effort as Ba sought to end several years without winning the national league championship.

The decision proved successful almost immediately.

Under head coach Ravinesh Kumar, Ba developed into the most consistent side in Fiji’s top flight, finishing the Extra Premier League campaign with 42 points from 18 matches, four ahead of runners-up Labasa.

The Men in Black recorded 13 victories, three draws and only two defeats, scoring 54 goals and conceding just 14. Their commanding performances eventually secured the club’s first league championship since 2019, ending a seven-year wait for the title.

Logaivau provided experience and leadership in midfield, helping Ba maintain consistency throughout a campaign that featured several established internationals, emerging domestic players and new arrivals from other Pacific Island nations.

His appointment as captain also placed him at the centre of the club’s rebuilding process. Rather than simply joining a squad expected to compete for trophies, the former Labasa midfielder became one of the figures responsible for guiding Ba through a season of renewed expectations.

The Golden Ball award recognised his role in that transformation, but the celebrations were far from over.

When the individual honours were presented, Ba had already captured three of Fiji’s four major domestic titles.

Their first major tournament success arrived in June, when they defeated Navua 3-1 on penalties following a goalless Fiji FACT final at Subrail Park in Labasa. The victory ended a 16-year wait for the trophy, which Ba had last won in 2010.

In August, the club secured the Extra Premier League championship, and September brought another achievement when Ba defeated Rewa 2-1 in the Battle of the Giants final at Govind Park.

That result completed a domestic treble and established Ba as the first team to win those three competitions in a single season under the modern 90-minute tournament format.

However, the IDC presented an opportunity to accomplish something even greater.

The road to the championship was particularly meaningful for Logaivau because Ba had to eliminate his former club Labasa in the semi-finals.

On Saturday, October 10, the two teams produced a fiercely contested encounter at HFC Bank Stadium. Solomon Islands international John Orobulu opened the scoring for Ba in the 25th minute, but experienced Labasa captain Christopher Wasasala equalised in the 59th.

Neither side could find another goal during regulation time or extra time, forcing the match into a penalty shootout.

Ba recovered from missing their first attempt, with goalkeeper Misiwani Nairube denying Lekima Gonerau before Nabil Begg converted the decisive penalty to secure a place in the final.

For Logaivau, the result meant overcoming the district he had represented before joining Ba, while keeping alive the possibility of completing a perfect domestic season.

The following afternoon, the Men in Black faced Navua in a repeat of June’s Fiji FACT final.

Once again, Navua proved difficult opponents. The match remained goalless for much of the contest before Ba finally broke the deadlock in the 80th minute with David Supa. Etonia Dogalau subsequently converted a penalty in the 87th minute to seal a 2-0 victory.

The triumph delivered Ba’s 26th IDC championship and completed a clean sweep of the Extra Premier League, Fiji FACT, Battle of the Giants and Inter-District Championship.

It was the first time any Fijian club had accomplished the four-title sweep since Ba themselves achieved the feat in 2006, twenty years earlier. The 2026 achievement also made the Men in Black the first side to complete the quadruple since the country’s major tournaments adopted the full 90-minute format.

For Logaivau, the final represented the ultimate confirmation of his decision to join the club.

Speaking to The Fiji Times after lifting the trophy, the captain revealed that he had repeatedly encouraged his teammates to believe that 2026 would belong to Ba.

“I always told the boys that this year is our year,” he said.

Logaivau also credited the dedication of his teammates and expressed gratitude to his family, particularly his wife and daughter, for supporting him throughout the season.

His words reflected the significance of an achievement that extended well beyond individual recognition. In his first campaign with the Men in Black, he had helped lead the club to every major domestic trophy available.

The Fiji FA awards ceremony also recognised several other outstanding performers from the 2026 Extra Premier League.

Suva striker Siotame Kubu claimed the Golden Boot after scoring 15 goals, finishing as the league’s leading goalscorer despite his district’s relatively modest campaign.

Labasa goalkeeper Jitoko Vulava received the Golden Glove award, while Nadroga were recognised with the Fair Play Team Award.

Labasa finished second in the championship standings, followed by Rewa in third and Lautoka in fourth.

Elsewhere, Seaqaqa were crowned overall Extra Senior League champions after also winning the Vanua Levu Zone title. Tavua claimed the Viti Levu Zone championship, while futsal honours were awarded to Suva, Ba and Labasa across their respective regional competitions.

The awards illustrated the range of achievements across Fijian domestic football, but Ba’s extraordinary season ensured that the Men in Black occupied a central place in the celebrations.

There was also another individual success for the club during the IDC itself, with midfielder Etonia Dogalau receiving the tournament’s Golden Ball after contributing to the championship-winning campaign.

For Logaivau, however, the Extra Premier League award carries particular significance because it recognises performances across an entire league season rather than a short knockout tournament.

His influence has been measured not only through individual displays but also through his leadership during a campaign in which Ba consistently overcame difficult opponents and delivered results in decisive matches.

The club’s resurgence has also been significant for head coach Ravinesh Kumar and president Praneel Dayal, whose first year in charge of the association has coincided with one of the most successful seasons in Ba’s history.

After several years of frustration, the Men in Black have restored their domestic dominance, winning four major titles and reaffirming their position among Fiji’s most decorated football institutions.

For Logaivau, the journey has been especially striking.

He began 2026 as a new arrival from Labasa, joining a club determined to return to winning ways. He ends the season as the Extra Premier League’s Golden Ball winner and the captain of a team that has achieved something no Fijian district had managed for two decades.

Four trophies, one individual award and a place in Ba’s history have made his first season in black one to remember.

Raphael Lea’i leads Solomon Kings’ latest contract renewals ahead of OFC Pro League

Solomon Kings FC have confirmed the return of four players ahead of the inaugural OFC Pro League season, with Solomon Islands international Raphael Lea’i headlining the latest round of contract renewals announced by the club.

Alongside Lea’i, the Kings have secured the services of Clivert Sam, Junior David and Fordney Junior, retaining four familiar faces as preparations continue for the new professional competition. The announcements form part of the club’s ongoing efforts to assemble its squad for the historic tournament. Recently, three other players were confirmed back to the Kings’ squad.

All players announced by Kings are currently playing in Solomon Islands S-League; Lea’i, David and Fordney Junior are all Central Coast FC members while Clivert Sam is currently defeding the colours of Green Shield – both sides faced each other in the latest round of the national league.

Lea’i remains one of the most recognisable footballers in Solomon Islands, having established himself as an important figure for the national team. The attacking player has attracted international attention throughout his career, including a spell in Bosnia and Herzegovina with Velež Mostar. His continued presence provides Solomon Kings with an experienced attacking option as the club prepares to compete against professional opposition from across Oceania.

The other three returning players will also contribute to the continuity of the squad. Sam, David and Fordney Junior have all been included in the club’s latest announcements, with Solomon Kings choosing to retain players already familiar with the team’s environment rather than relying exclusively on new arrivals.

The club has indicated that further squad announcements are expected throughout the week, suggesting that more players will be confirmed in the coming days. No details regarding the duration of the four renewed contracts were disclosed.

Solomon Kings will represent Solomon Islands in the OFC Pro League, a competition designed to introduce a new level of professional club football across the Pacific. Building a competitive squad will be particularly important as the Kings prepare to face opponents from different footballing environments within the region.

With Lea’i, Sam, David and Fordney Junior confirmed, attention now turns to the club’s next announcements as the Solomon Islands representatives continue shaping their squad for the upcoming campaign.

Kiribati sweep IDC individual awards as Itiata, Martin Jr and Kiteon claim top honours

Kiribati’s historic triumph at the 2026 FMF Inter-District Championship (IDC) was accompanied by a clean sweep of the Premier Division’s three major individual awards, with Nabetari Itiata, Bauro Martin Jr and Toom Kiteon receiving recognition for their outstanding performances throughout the tournament in Suva.

Nabetari Itiata received the Golden Ball as the competition’s Best Player, having played a decisive role in Kiribati’s remarkable campaign. The attacking player scored four goals during the tournament, including twice in the 6-1 victory over Seaqaqa in Sunday’s final. His second goal restored Kiribati’s lead early in the second half, setting the stage for the emphatic victory that secured the country’s first IDC title.

The Golden Boot went to 19-year-old Bauro Martin Jr, who finished as the Premier Division’s leading scorer with six goals in four matches. The youngster from Butaritari, who plays for Tekinati FC in Kiribati, announced himself with a hat-trick against Nadroga before adding another goal in the semi-final victory over Fiji U17. He also found the net in the championship decider, completing an impressive individual campaign on his first appearance at the IDC.

Meanwhile, Toom Kiteon received the Golden Glove as the tournament’s Best Goalkeeper, completing Kiribati’s dominance of the individual honours. The goalkeeper featured throughout the team’s campaign, keeping a clean sheet in the 6-0 victory over Nadroga and contributing to the victories against Fiji U17 and Seaqaqa that ultimately delivered the championship.

Kiribati finished their debut IDC campaign with three consecutive victories after losing their opening match, scoring 17 goals across four fixtures. Their success was particularly significant for a national team that had spent years with limited opportunities to compete internationally. Alongside the Premier Division trophy, the individual recognition earned by Itiata, Martin Jr and Kiteon provided another memorable achievement for Kiribati football, highlighting the talent emerging from the Pacific island nation.

Gordon Iro’s late equaliser denies Central Coast as S-League Round 12 delivers more drama

Green Shield FC rescued a dramatic 1-1 draw against defending champions Central Coast FC in the biggest encounter of Round 12 of the Solomon Islands S-League, with Gordon Iro scoring deep into stoppage time at Lawson Tama Stadium on Saturday. The weekend also brought a convincing victory for Malaita Kingz, another hat-trick from Southern United’s Spensor Vaevo and an important win for KOSSA as the competition continues to develop an intriguing title race.

The meeting between Green Shield and Central Coast carried particular significance following their previous encounter in September, when Central Coast overwhelmed their opponents 5-1. This time, the contest was considerably closer. Hudyn Irodao gave Central Coast the advantage in the 32nd minute, putting the reigning champions on course for another important victory. However, Green Shield refused to surrender, and Solomon Islands international Gordon Iro struck in the third minute of added time to secure a point for his side.

The late equaliser represented a much better outcome for Green Shield than their previous meeting with the champions, while Central Coast were left frustrated after coming so close to securing all three points. The result also carries implications for the championship race, particularly because Central Coast still have postponed fixtures to complete following their continental commitments earlier in the season.

Elsewhere, Malaita Kingz continued their impressive scoring form with a commanding 5-1 victory over Ghupo FC. Adrian Abae opened the scoring after just five minutes, before captain Ben Fox doubled the advantage in the 40th minute. Alvin Hou converted a penalty in the 66th minute, and Alfia Aunga added another four minutes later. Jack Wale pulled one back for Ghupo in the 76th minute, but Hou completed his brace in the 83rd minute to seal the result. The victory followed Malaita’s remarkable 7-0 demolition of Honiara City in midweek, meaning the Kingz have scored 12 goals across their last two matches.

Southern United also enjoyed a productive weekend, defeating Honiara City FC 3-0 thanks entirely to Spensor Vaevo. The striker opened the scoring in the 26th minute, doubled the lead ten minutes later and completed his hat-trick four minutes after half-time. Vaevo, who had already scored three goals against KOSSA in August, continues to establish himself as one of the competition’s most dangerous attacking players. Southern United’s victory also followed their emphatic 9-1 win over Laugu United the previous weekend.

KOSSA FC collected another three points with a 2-1 victory over Marist FC in Saturday’s opening encounter. Dickson Magi put KOSSA ahead in the 36th minute, but Danielson Gesini brought Marist level in the 68th minute. The equaliser was short-lived, however, as substitute John Nokia Gagame restored KOSSA’s advantage in the 75th minute, scoring what proved to be the winning goal.

Sunday’s other fixture saw SOSA FC and Laugu United FC share the points in a 1-1 draw. Steve Morris gave Laugu the lead in the 42nd minute, but Ronald Kivolyn equalised for SOSA in the 72nd minute. Neither side could find a winner, leaving both teams with a point from the encounter.

Following the weekend’s results, Malaita Kingz lead the provisional standings with 23 points from 12 matches, closely followed by Southern United with 22 points from 11 games. Green Shield sit third with 21 points from 11 matches, level with fourth-placed KOSSA, who have played one game fewer. Central Coast occupy fifth place with 17 points, but the defending champions remain unbeaten after seven matches, with five wins and two draws. Having played five fewer games than Malaita Kingz, they remain in a strong position to challenge for the title.

With Malaita Kingz, Southern United and KOSSA all recording victories, the latest round provided further movement among the teams competing near the top of the S-League. Yet the most consequential result may prove to be Green Shield’s late escape against Central Coast. With the reigning champions still having games in hand, the battle for the Solomon Islands championship remains far from settled.

Supa, Orobulu and Alick leave Pacific Island mark on Ba’s historic IDC triumph

Solomon Islands duo David Supa and John Orobulu, alongside Vanuatu international John Alick, played important roles in Ba FC’s successful 2026 Inter-District Championship (IDC) campaign, helping the Men in Black defeat Navua 2-0 in Sunday’s grand final at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva. Their contributions were part of a historic season for the Fijian club, which completed a clean sweep of the country’s four major domestic competitions.

The victory carried particular significance for Orobulu and Alick, who have now won consecutive IDC titles with different districts. Both players were members of the Rewa side that defeated Ba 1-0 in the 2025 final at Govind Park, denying the Men in Black the championship in front of their own supporters. Twelve months later, they celebrated the same trophy wearing Ba’s black jersey, having helped the club reclaim the title and complete its extraordinary domestic campaign.

Ba strengthened their squad considerably during the mid-season transfer window in June, recruiting all three Pacific internationals. Orobulu and Alick arrived after representing Papua New Guinea’s Hekari in the inaugural OFC Professional League, while Supa joined following his spell with Solomon Kings in the same competition. Their arrival gave coach Ravinesh Kumar experienced options in attack, midfield and defence, with the trio subsequently contributing to Ba’s Fiji FACT, Premier League, Battle of the Giants and IDC successes.

For Supa, the IDC grand final provided perhaps the most memorable moment of his first season in Fijian football. With the match against Navua still goalless in the closing stages, the Solomon Islands central defender scored the crucial opening goal in the 80th minute. Patrick Joseph delivered a free kick into the penalty area, where Navua goalkeeper Tevita Ravia failed to hold the ball. Supa reacted immediately to the rebound, tapping it into the net from close range to give Ba the advantage. Etonia Dogalau subsequently converted a penalty in the 87th minute to secure the 2-0 victory.

The goal added another achievement to Supa’s impressive first campaign outside the Solomon Islands domestic league. The defender had already contributed to Ba’s league triumph and played an important role in their other tournament successes. During the IDC semi-final against Labasa, he also converted one of Ba’s penalties in the shootout that secured their place in the final. Speaking to Oceania Football Center earlier in the season, Supa expressed his satisfaction with the opportunity to experience Fijian football.

“I am very happy to be with Ba. This is my first time playing in Fiji and then winning the Premier League in Fiji,” he said at the time. The defender has now added three more domestic titles to that achievement, completing a remarkable few months since his arrival from Solomon Kings.

Orobulu’s contribution was equally important, particularly during the earlier stages of the competition. The Solomon Islands striker finished the 2026 IDC with four goals, including a brace in Ba’s 3-0 victory over Nadi during the group stage. His first goal in that match arrived just 26 seconds after kick-off, while his second helped establish a comfortable advantage before halftime. He was also responsible for Ba’s opening goal against Labasa in the semi-finals, which eventually finished 1-1 before the Men in Black prevailed 5-3 on penalties.

The striker has established himself as one of the most productive Solomon Islands footballers in Fiji over the past two seasons. In 2025, he scored seven goals for Rewa during their successful IDC campaign, winning the tournament’s Golden Boot. He also claimed the Fiji Premier League Golden Boot that year after scoring 19 goals, before moving to Hekari and subsequently joining Ba during the 2026 season.

Despite arriving midway through the campaign, Orobulu scored seven league goals for Ba, including a hat-trick in the 6-0 victory over Tailevu Naitasiri that confirmed the national championship. His goals were also important during the Fiji FACT and Battle of the Giants campaigns, helping the Men in Black maintain their remarkable pursuit of domestic silverware.

Alick’s contribution was different but no less valuable to the team’s success. The experienced Vanuatu midfielder did not score during the 2026 IDC, but his performances earned considerable praise, with his experience and work in midfield helping provide stability to Ba’s team. A regular presence throughout the tournament, Alick offered an important contribution beyond the goals and individual awards that often attract the most attention.

The 35-year-old had already demonstrated his quality earlier in the season, scoring a spectacular long-range goal against Nadroga during his first Fiji FACT appearance for Ba. His experience at club and international level proved valuable as the Men in Black navigated a demanding schedule across several competitions. Like Orobulu, he now possesses IDC winners’ medals from consecutive seasons with two different Fijian districts.

The connection between the two players extends beyond their successful campaigns with Rewa and Ba. Both were part of the Rewa team that lifted the IDC trophy in October 2025, subsequently moved to Hekari for Oceania’s first professional club league and then returned to Fiji together in June. Their latest championship represents the continuation of a successful partnership across three clubs and two different football environments within the Pacific.

The influence of players from other Pacific nations was not limited to Ba during this year’s IDC. On the opposite side of Sunday’s final, Vanuatu international Walter Leoru was among Navua’s standout performers. The forward scored a hat-trick in their opening 3-0 victory over Nadi, helping the Southerners begin a campaign that eventually carried them to the grand final. Although Navua were unable to overcome Ba, Leoru’s performances provided another example of the important role played by Melanesian footballers in Fiji’s domestic competitions.

For Ba, however, the combination of Supa, Orobulu and Alick offered a particularly important balance of experience and quality. The three players arrived from different backgrounds but became part of the same successful project, contributing to a season in which Ba won the Premier League, Fiji FACT, Battle of the Giants and IDC, repeating a four-title achievement last accomplished by the club in 2006.

Their success also illustrates the opportunities available to Pacific Island footballers beyond their domestic competitions. With the establishment of the OFC Professional League and continued movement between clubs in Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea and Fiji, experienced players are increasingly building careers across different football environments in the region.

For Supa, the IDC final will be remembered for the goal that broke Navua’s resistance. For Orobulu, it represents another successful tournament after two prolific seasons in Fiji. For Alick, it is recognition of his contribution and experience in a championship-winning midfield.

Together, the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu internationals have added their names to another important chapter in Ba’s history, while Orobulu and Alick have achieved the distinction of winning back-to-back IDC championships, first by defeating the Men in Black and then by helping them reclaim the trophy.

Ba complete historic clean sweep of Fiji football with 2-0 IDC final victory over Navua

Ba FC have completed one of the most remarkable seasons in Fijian football history after defeating Navua 2-0 in the grand final of the 2026 FMF Inter-District Championship (IDC) on Sunday, October 11, at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva. Late goals from Solomon Islands defender David Supa and midfielder Etonia Dogalau secured the Men in Black their 26th IDC title and, more importantly, completed a clean sweep of Fiji’s four major domestic competitions: the Extra Premier League, Fiji FACT, Battle of the Giants and Inter-District Championship.

The achievement marks the first time a Fijian club has captured all four major domestic titles in the same season since Ba themselves accomplished the feat in 2006. Twenty years later, Ravinesh Kumar’s side have repeated that success under considerably different competitive conditions, becoming the first team to complete the quadruple since Fiji’s major tournaments adopted the full 90-minute format in 2013.

The final brought together two familiar opponents who had already faced each other twice in significant encounters during the season. Ba defeated Navua on penalties in June’s Fiji FACT final before the teams shared a dramatic 2-2 draw during the IDC group stage earlier this week. On that occasion, Ba surrendered a two-goal advantage, with Navua captain Peniame Drova scoring a late equaliser. Sunday’s decisive encounter consequently offered Navua another opportunity to challenge the dominant force in Fijian domestic football.

The match began with Ba attempting to establish themselves in attack, but Navua demonstrated the defensive organisation that had carried them past defending champions Rewa in the semi-finals. Captain Peniame Drova and Vinal Prasad played important roles in containing Ba’s attacking movements, while goalkeeper Tevita Ravia provided additional security whenever the Men in Black threatened.

Navua also attempted to create opportunities of their own, although neither side managed to establish a decisive advantage during the opening half. The Southerners suffered an early setback when Kolinio Sivoki was forced off through injury around the half-hour mark, prompting the introduction of Simione Damuni. Despite the disruption, Rodicks Singh’s team maintained their defensive resistance and reached halftime with the score still 0-0.

The second period followed a similarly competitive pattern. Ba continued searching for an opening, while Navua relied on their defensive discipline and Ravia’s interventions to remain in contention. Having played 120 minutes against Rewa just one day earlier, Navua faced another demanding contest against opponents who had also required extra time and a penalty shootout to overcome Labasa in the previous round.

The breakthrough eventually arrived in the 80th minute following a costly mistake by Ravia. Patrick Joseph delivered a free kick into the penalty area, where the Navua goalkeeper failed to gather what appeared to be a relatively straightforward ball. The handling error left the ball loose inside the six-yard box, and Solomon Islands central defender David Supa, positioned close to the goal, reacted quickly to tap the rebound into the net.

It was a particularly important contribution from Supa, who had joined Ba for the 2026 season and established himself as part of the team’s defensive unit. With Navua having successfully resisted Ba’s attacking pressure for most of the encounter, the defender’s presence in the opposition penalty area proved decisive. His goal finally broke the deadlock and forced Navua to abandon their cautious approach in search of an equaliser.

However, Navua’s hopes of forcing the contest into extra time suffered another blow seven minutes later. Nabil Begg broke through the defence following an attack down the left flank before being brought down inside the penalty area. Referee Torika Delai awarded a penalty, giving Ba the opportunity to put the championship beyond Navua’s reach.

Etonia Dogalau stepped forward and converted from the spot in the 87th minute, extending the advantage to 2-0. The goal provided a fitting conclusion to an outstanding individual tournament for the midfielder, who was subsequently recognised with the Golden Ball award. Dogalau had already scored three times during the group stage, including a brace against Lautoka, and his latest contribution brought his tournament tally to four.

The closing stages were also marked by controversy when a confrontation developed between players following Ba’s second goal. Police personnel intervened to restore order, with disciplinary action following the incident. Navua substitute Simione Damuni was sent off, while the confrontation added further tension to the final minutes. Nevertheless, Ba maintained their advantage until the final whistle to confirm their place as the 2026 IDC champions.

The victory completed an unbeaten IDC campaign for Ba, who began the tournament with a 2-1 victory over Lautoka before drawing 2-2 with Navua. A convincing 3-0 win against Nadi secured first place in Group B with seven points, setting up a semi-final against Labasa. That encounter proved considerably more difficult, with Solomon Islands international John Orobulu putting Ba ahead before Christopher Wasasala equalised for the Babasiga Lions. After 120 minutes, goalkeeper Misiwani Nairube helped Ba prevail in the penalty shootout and reach the final.

Orobulu was another important figure in Ba’s successful tournament. The Solomon Islands striker scored four goals during the competition, including a brace against Nadi and the opening goal against Labasa in the semi-finals. Having won the IDC with Rewa in 2025, he has now collected the same trophy with Ba, continuing an impressive period in Fijian football. His compatriot David Supa and Vanuatu international John Alick were also part of the starting side in Sunday’s final, highlighting the contribution of Pacific Island footballers to Ba’s championship-winning squad.

For Navua, the defeat brought an unfortunate conclusion to an otherwise impressive tournament. Singh’s players opened their campaign with a 3-0 victory over Nadi, recovered from two goals down against Ba and secured qualification with a goalless draw against Lautoka. Their greatest achievement came in the semi-finals, when they eliminated defending champions Rewa 4-1 on penalties after 120 scoreless minutes.

Substitute goalkeeper Jovilisi Borisi emerged as the hero of that encounter after Singh introduced him specifically for the penalty shootout. Borisi saved attempts from Scott Wara and Semi Nabenu, allowing Navua to advance to the championship decider despite the absence of several important players.

Reaching the IDC final represented a significant accomplishment for a Navua side that finished fifth in the Premier League and had already experienced disappointment against Ba in the Fiji FACT final. The Southerners had also endured a difficult Battle of the Giants campaign, failing to progress beyond the group stage. Their ability to eliminate Rewa and reach another major final consequently demonstrated the team’s resilience, although they ultimately finished the season without a major domestic trophy.

Beyond the IDC, Ba’s 2026 season has been defined by their return to the summit of Fijian football. They won the Extra Premier League with 42 points from 18 matches, scoring 54 goals and conceding only 14 to end a seven-year wait for the national league championship. The achievement delivered their record 22nd league title and secured qualification for the next OFC Champions League.

In June, Ba defeated Navua 3-1 on penalties after a goalless Fiji FACT final at Subrail Park in Labasa, ending a 16-year wait for that particular trophy. It was a significant moment for the club, which had last won the competition in 2010, also against Navua.

Their third major title arrived in September, when Ba overcame Rewa 2-1 in the Battle of the Giants final at Govind Park, with Praneel Naidu and Penisoni Tirau scoring the decisive goals. That victory delivered the club’s record-extending 18th BOG championship and established an opportunity to complete the domestic clean sweep at the IDC.

Sunday’s triumph was particularly meaningful for Ba Football Association president Praneel Dayal, whose first year in charge has coincided with the club’s return to domestic dominance. Together with head coach Ravinesh Kumar, the administration has overseen a season in which Ba recovered from several years without the league and Fiji FACT titles to win every major domestic competition available.

The club’s achievements had already received international recognition before the IDC, with FIFA president Gianni Infantino congratulating Ba on their historic domestic treble in September. The subsequent IDC victory has now elevated that accomplishment even further, establishing Ba as the first team to win all four major Fijian domestic competitions in a single season under the modern 90-minute format.

The IDC championship also brought financial rewards, with Ba receiving FJ$25,000 as tournament winners and Navua collecting FJ$6,000 as runners-up.

Twenty years after their celebrated four-title campaign of 2006, the Men in Black have accomplished the feat once again. Their latest achievement carries additional historical importance because it has been completed in Fiji’s modern football era, reinforcing Ba’s position among the country’s most successful football institutions.

Having fallen short against Rewa in the 2025 IDC final, Ba returned one year later to reclaim the trophy and complete the set. Four major competitions, four titles and another chapter in the history of Fiji’s most decorated football district.

SALT FC complete unbeaten season with dominant 11–3 victory in Solomon Islands futsal final

SALT FC have crowned an exceptional 2026 campaign in Solomon Islands futsal, defeating Haura FC 11–3 in the SIFF Super Futsal Top 8 Championship final at Friendship Hall in Honiara on Friday, 9 October.

The emphatic victory completed a domestic double for SALT, who had already secured the 2026 SIFF Super Futsal League title with a perfect record, winning every league match without a single draw or defeat.

Coached by Stanley Puairana, SALT entered the championship decider after an impressive 8–2 semifinal victory over Dawn FC. Their opponents, Haura FC, had booked their place in the final with a 3–1 win against Roma FC.

However, SALT proved too strong in the title showdown, scoring 11 goals to secure another trophy and underline their dominance of the domestic futsal scene.

Haura, meanwhile, completed an impressive campaign of their own, finishing second in both the regular league standings and the Top 8 Championship.

The conclusion of the season also brought individual recognition for several outstanding performers. SALT’s Stanley Puairana was named Coach of the Season, while Alvin Hou received the Golden Ball award and teammate Leonard Auwakea claimed the Golden Glove.

Stride FC’s Alo Kevin finished with the Golden Boot award, while Futsal GC received the Fair Play Award.

In the final league standings, SALT finished ahead of Haura FC, Kukstaon FC and Stride FC, who occupied the remaining positions in the top four.

The domestic triumph now puts SALT in the spotlight ahead of the 2027 OFC Futsal Club Championship in Tahiti, where the Solomon Islands champions are expected to represent their country against leading clubs from across Oceania.

For SALT, the 2026 season will be remembered not only for the trophies but also for the remarkable consistency that established them as the dominant force in Solomon Islands futsal.