FOOTBALL fever has gripped Labasa as the northern town prepares to host the opening major tournament of the domestic season, the 2026 BiC Fiji FACT, at Subrail Park today.
Over the next three days, the nation’s top eight sides will battle for supremacy and a coveted place in next weekend’s semi-finals.
With strengthened squads, returning stars and several high-profile signings, supporters can expect a fiercely contested championship.
Pool A: Labasa, Rewa, Suva, Navua
Hosts Labasa enter the competition carrying the weight of expectation after lifting two major trophies last season. Backed by one of the most passionate fan bases in the country, the Babasiga Lions have assembled an impressive lineup.
The return of striker Christopher Wasasala and goalkeeper Joji Vuakaca provides stability, while defender Lekima Gonerau adds experience at the back.
Former Ba captain Ilaisa Nayasi has also rejoined the club to strengthen the midfield. Papua New Guinea representatives Rex Naime and Joseph Joe further enhance an already formidable squad.
Naime is expected to play a key role throughout the campaign.
Rewa arrive with renewed confidence following the return of several players from the OFC Professional League.
Tevita Waranivalu, Setareki Hughes, Delon Shankar, Gabriele Matanisiga, Josaia Sela and Ivan Kumar are all back in red, while Semi Nabenu, Don Keana, Lucas Santos and Jack Raiyawa add further quality.
The Delta Tigers possess one of the most balanced teams in the tournament, with Nabenu likely to attract plenty of attention.
Suva: Suva head north eager to defy expectations.
Despite inconsistent performances in recent Extra Premier League fixtures, coach Mohammed Erfan remains confident of producing results.
New recruits Gagame Feni and Samuela Drudru have been brought in to improve creativity and finishing, while experienced campaigners Remueru Tekiata, Siotame Kubu, Inoke Turagalailai, Akuila Mataisuva and Dave Radrigai will shoulder responsibility.
Drudru could prove the difference-maker.
Navua have emerged as one of the competition’s dark horses. Solomon Islands international William Komasi headlines an ambitious recruitment drive that also includes Junior Jack and Walter Leoru.
The return of Thomas Dunn and Filipe Baravilala strengthens the attack, while Apolosi Seru offers pace out wide. Komasi will be central to Navua’s hopes.
Pool B: Ba, Lautoka, Nasinu, Nadroga
In Pool B, Ba have generated considerable interest with a series of headline-making acquisitions. Patrick Joseph’s move from Rewa has been among the most talked-about transfers in recent years. The Men in Black have also secured the services of John Orobulu, John Alick, David Supa, Jai Naidu and Shazil Ali as they seek to end a lengthy title drought.
Lautoka remain a dangerous contender despite a quiet transfer period. Nasinu, meanwhile, have impressed with several giant-killing performances this season and will be boosted by the return of Maikah Dau and defender Josaia Ratu.
Nadroga complete the field, relying heavily on overseas recruits Jibola Afonja, Francis Frank and Christopher Adejumo.
Today’s opening matches see Lautoka face Nasinu at 1pm, followed by Ba against Nadroga at 3pm. Rewa meet Navua at 5pm before hosts Labasa take on Suva in the feature clash at 7.30pm.
