Jovilisi Borisi was not expecting to be the centre of attention when Navua faced defending champions Rewa in the semi-finals of the 2026 FMF Inter-District Championship. The reserve goalkeeper had not even warmed up before coach Rodicks Singh called him into action specifically for the penalty shootout. Minutes later, his two saves had helped Navua secure a place in Sunday’s final against Ba.
After 120 goalless minutes at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva, Singh decided to replace starting goalkeeper Tevita Ravia with Borisi for the shootout – before the end of the extra-time in time for the goalkeeper to take part of the decisive shots. The gamble paid off as Borisi denied Scott Wara and Semi Nabenu, helping Navua win 4-1 on penalties and eliminate the defending champions.
Speaking exclusively to Oceania Football Center (OFCe), Borisi revealed that he had entered the decisive moment without any physical preparation on the sidelines, but with the support of his teammates.
“I thank the boys for believing in me. Although I never went for a warm-up, they still believed in me,” Borisi told OFCe, also thanking God for His protection and blessings.
Despite becoming one of the main figures in Navua’s remarkable semi-final victory, the goalkeeper does not expect his performance to change his position in the squad.
“I’ll still be in the reserves, and nothing has changed,” he said.
His response reflects the unusual circumstances of his contribution. Borisi had spent the entire match watching from the bench before being trusted with one of the most demanding responsibilities a goalkeeper can face. With Navua’s place in the final at stake, he delivered precisely what his coach had hoped for.
Asked whether he would be prepared to repeat the role if necessary, Borisi gave a straightforward answer: “Sure.”
Navua now face Ba in Sunday’s championship decider, a familiar opponent who defeated them in the Fiji FACT final earlier this season. Borisi also featured in that shootout, saving one penalty, but was unable to prevent Ba from claiming the trophy.
The upcoming encounter provides another opportunity for Navua to overcome the Men in Black, who have already enjoyed considerable success in Fiji’s domestic competitions this year.
Borisi remains confident that his team can challenge Ba for the title, expressing his belief that Navua can produce another memorable result.
“We’re believing in this. God will do miracles on the ground,” he said.
The goalkeeper also had a message for Navua supporters ahead of the final, encouraging them to help the team through one last challenge.
“Just come out in numbers and support the boys, and keep believing in the boys,” Borisi concluded.
Whether he starts on the bench or is called upon again, Borisi has already demonstrated the value of having a goalkeeper ready to make a difference when his opportunity arrives. On Sunday, Navua will hope that the same collective confidence that carried them past Rewa can help them go one step further against Ba.
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