Battle of survival

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Ba’s Mitieli Naivoro controls possession as Tailevu Naitasiri player Samuela Nasava comes in during their match in the Digicel Premier League at the Fiji Football Academy ground in Ba. Picture: REINAL CHAND

All eyes will be on the promotion and relegation battles this weekend as the Digicel Fiji Premier League and Senior League reach their climax.

In the Premier League, it’s a do-or-die situation for Tailevu Naitasiri and Nasinu FC, both tied on 12 points and fighting for survival.

Tailevu Naitasiri, with a slight edge due to a better goal difference, faces a crucial match against Lautoka FC, where only a win can guarantee their place in the top division.

Nasinu FC, meanwhile, will battle Nadroga FC, needing nothing less than a win to secure their Premier League status.

Both teams are on the line, with the loser facing relegation.

On the other side of the equation, the promotion race heats up between Tavua FC and Bua FC.

Bua is in the driver’s seat after a 1-0 win in the first leg of the Senior League play-off.

A draw or win in the second leg will see them promoted to the Premier League.

Tavua FC, however, must win by two goals to reclaim their spot in the top division. If Tavua manages a 1-0 win, the match will go into extra time or penalties to decide the promotion outcome.

Meanwhile, Extra Rewa FC has clinched the 2024 Digicel Fiji Premier League title, securing a spot in next year’s OFC Champions League. Labasa has locked down second place, with just one round of matches remaining.