Fiji creates history with sixth FANCA Premier title

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The Fiji premier team celebrates after being crowned as champion of the FANCA Nations World Cup 2026. Picture: FIJI MUSLIM SPORTS ASSOCIATION

THE Pacific Heavy Industries Fiji have written another memorable chapter in Fiji Muslim football history after being crowned Premier Champions of the Classic Buses FANCA Nations World Cup 2026 at Prince Charles Park.

Fiji completed a remarkable tournament undefeated and without conceding a single goal, securing a historic sixth FANCA Premier title in front of a packed home crowd.

Close to 4,000 supporters turned out at Prince Charles Park for the pulsating grand final, where Fiji defeated defending rivals New Zealand 1-0.

Ba striker Fazil Ali, popularly known as “Tiger”, proved to be the hero for the hosts after scoring the decisive goal in the opening minute of the match.

The early strike gave Fiji the perfect start, but they were made to work hard for the remainder of the contest as New Zealand pressed for an equaliser.

Fiji, however, showed tremendous courage, discipline and determination to protect their slender advantage until the final whistle.

The victory capped an extraordinary campaign for the home side, which finished the tournament undefeated while maintaining a perfect defensive record.

Zibraz Sahid was recognised for his outstanding performances throughout the competition after being named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player and Golden Ball winner.

Goalkeeper Mohammed Aziz also enjoyed a memorable campaign, claiming the Golden Glove award after helping Fiji complete the entire tournament without conceding a goal.

Fiji also received the Best Disciplined Nation award.

Fiji Head of Nation and FANCA 2026 Organising Committee chair Haji Javed Ahmed expressed immense pride in the team’s achievement, describing the victory as a fitting conclusion to a historic FANCA Nations World Cup on home soil.

The triumph carried additional significance as the tournament was staged alongside the Fiji Muslim League Centenary Celebrations, bringing together generations of the community through football, faith, brotherhood and unity.

Meanwhile, New Zealand defeated Fiji 2-1 to claim the Youth category title.

The United States of America edged hosts Fiji 5-4 in the Masters final, while New Zealand defeated Canada 1-0 to win the Legends category.

USA also claimed the Veterans title after defeating Fiji 3-0 in the final.