Local teams, Rewa, Labasa, Ba and Lautoka FC’s heading to New Zealand in a week’s time for the Pacific Community Cup are raring to play against top teams from the Fijian diasporas of Canada, Australia, NZ and the USA.
The Pacific Community Cup is a 10-team competition that will be played at Bill McKinley Park in Panmure, Auckland, NZ featuting 60 minutes football per game and will start from Wednesday 26th November with the finals on Sunday 30th November
There will be a Fijian allstar team from the US, two allstar teams from Australia, three teams from New Zealand and four Fijian champion sides REWA, LABASA, BA and LAUTOKA and in addition to that there will also be four U16 youths teams from Fiji, Canada, Australia and New Zealand who will play alongside the main tournament.
From Fiji, Rewa FC will lead the group as the current champions of both the Extra Supermarket Premier League and the FMF Inter-District Championship, Labasa FC, winners of the Extra Battle of the Giants, will join them, along with experienced sides Ba FC and Lautoka FC.
Fiji Football Association President Rajesh Patel said the Pacific Community Cup is an important opportunity for Fijian players to perform on an international stage.
“The Pacific Community Cup has always held a special place for our players and fans. It’s the coming together of the Fijian diaspora and also a way where we can give back to our communities.” Patel said.
“It allows our clubs to gain exposure, compete against quality opposition, and connect with Fijians living abroad who continue to support football passionately.”
He also highlighted the growth of football in Fiji and welcomed the inclusion of youth teams in this year’s tournament.
“We’re seeing real progress in the development of football across the country,” he said.
“Including youth teams in the Pacific Community Cup is a great way to give young players experience and prepare them for future competitions.”
