The Nawaka Blues, coached by Vikash Chand, have made history as the first team to secure a spot in the Fiji FA National Club Championship 2024. This achievement came after a 2-0 victory over Gandhi Lionz, where Mohammed Shalmeen and Shazil Valentine each netted a goal in different halves of the match. The game took place on Monday night at the Korovuto College grounds during the Sher Ali-sponsored Nadi Football Premier Local League final.
The Nawaka Blues fielded a strong lineup including players such as William Valentine, Christopher Kumar, goalkeeper Samu Tamanisau, Shafeem Buksh, Mohammed Shalmeen, Sahil Valentine, and Mohammed Ayman. Coach Singh expressed pride in the team’s accomplishment, stating, “We aim to make the cut for the NCC, the ultimate dream for all teams, and we did it as a team.”
On the opposing side, Gandhi Lionz featured players like Ame Votoniu, Christopher Chand, Vishant Reddy, and Ashneel Singh. Nawaka Blues advanced to the final by defeating Army FC 3-2 in a penalty shootout, while Gandhi Lionz narrowly overcame DCA ONE with a 2-1 victory.
Lawrence Kumar from the Nadi football board praised the completion of the local league and congratulated the Blues on their success, expressing hopes that they would revive the glory days experienced by Tanoa FC. He also acknowledged the collective effort of teams, officials, and supporters throughout the season and aimed for improvement in the upcoming year.
In the senior division final, Girni FC celebrated their first championship title by defeating DCA II 1-0. Girni FC reached the final by winning against Korovuto 1-0 in the semi-finals, while DCA II triumphed over Barara FC with the same scoreline.