Labasa may host again

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Anish Khem celebrates with his teammates after scoring the winning goal in the Extra Battle of the Giants semifinal at Subrail park in Labasa. Picture: KATA KOLI

Labasa may host another major football tournament next year.

Fiji Football Association president Rajesh Patel stated during the closing ceremony that there is a possibility that they will bring another tournament to Subrail Park in 2026.

This was given the consistent increase in the number of spectators since day one of the tournament.

More than 13,000 spectators turned up during the pool stages of the BOG last weekend and an additional 14, 171 people turned up for the semi-finals and final.

The home crowd was the advantage that Labasa had over other teams and it proved influential in their performance that eventually led them to the Extra Battle of the Giants title yesterday.

“I knew that the largest fan base in football history in this country is in Labasa.

“We have people supporting us from all over the world and a last message to them is to enjoy this win, it’s very memorable for all of us, Babasiga Lions,” Labasa head coach Alvin Chand stated.

Following the awards ceremony, fans stormed to the ground to share the winning moment with the coaches and players.

People were heard chanting Labasa on the streets while cars tooted their horn to signify their celebration for Labasa’s BOG victory.