EXTRA Supermarket Labasa will not be taking River Tubing Fiji/Classic Tours & Rentals Navua lightly when the two sides clash today in the first semi-final of the Extra Battle of the Giants.
Despite being the home team and riding high on recent success, Labasa head coach Alvin Chand said his side is fully aware of the threat Navua poses.
“We have a game plan set in place. We’re preparing well for Navua. With all due respect to them, we know they’ve been consistent in a lot of tournaments over the past five years,” he said.
Navua has built a reputation as one of the most determined sides in Fijian football, having reached multiple finals in recent years.
Chand said his players have been reminded not to underestimate their opponents.
“They’ve reached many semifinals, and their league performance has also been solid. So, we’re preparing thoroughly,” he said.
He praised Navua’s squad depth, pointing out their exciting mix of young talents and experienced campaigners.
“The Navua team has a lot of talented players with individual brilliance. They’ve got a mix of young talent and experienced senior players, and I know they’re going to give us a tough challenge on Saturday.”
Labasa, meanwhile, will be looking to make it three titles in a row after their victories at the 2024 Inter-District Championship and the 2025 Fiji FACT.
This time, they have the added motivation of playing in front of their home fans at Subrail Park.
Chand said the players know what’s expected of them.
“We’ve got a few plans in mind, the players know what to do, and they understand what’s expected of them. I’m hopeful things will go well.”
He said while winning was the target, the team remains grounded.
“I’ve always said that if you’re taking part in a tournament or competition, the aim should be to win, and it’s the same for us, but that doesn’t mean we’re overconfident or over hyped.
“We’re preparing mentally and physically and hoping the outcome goes our way in the end.”
With both teams hungry for success, the semi-final one promises to be a thrilling encounter that could go down as a classic in Fijian football.
The game kicks off at 2pm today at Subrail Park in Labasa.