Suva Football Club enters the 2025 Battle of the Giants (BOG) tournament carrying a powerful mix of ambition and history. Their last title in the competition came in 1995—a full 30 years ago. Since that victory, the capital city club has endured a prolonged and painful drought, marked by unrealized potential and repeated disappointment.
Now, three decades later, Suva FC is preparing to break the cycle. With a balanced and experienced squad, led by head coach Brian Singh, Suva is determined to transform past frustrations into triumph and reassert itself as one of the giants of Fijian football.
Suva’s history in the BOG tournament is one of both success and missed opportunities. The club won its first BOG title in 1982, followed by a second in 1988, when it defeated Ba in a dramatic penalty shootout. In 1995, Suva claimed its third and most recent title with a 2–1 win over Navua on home soil.
Since then, the team has failed to reclaim the trophy despite regularly competing at the top of Fijian domestic football. Each passing year has added to the weight of expectation. What once seemed like a brief dry spell has grown into a 30-year absence from the tournament winner’s podium.
In 2025, history serves as both motivation and pressure. The players and coaching staff know they are not only playing for a title, but also for the pride of their club, their supporters, and their city.
At the center of Suva’s revival is head coach Brian Singh, a former national U-17 and Tailevu Naitasiri goalkeeper.
While Suva’s league form in the Extra Premier League has been inconsistent—including a notable 2–1 loss to Nadroga—its 2025 BOG squad is a well-rounded unit composed of experienced veterans, promising young players, and international recruits who bring quality and flair.
In goal, Akuila Mataisuva offers composure and leadership. A proven shot-stopper, Mataisuva plays a critical role in organizing the defense and maintaining structure during high-pressure moments.
The backline includes key players such as Inoke Turaqalailai, Remeuru Takiate, and Amani Makoe. These defenders provide strength, aerial dominance, and positional awareness. Supporting them are Abhishek Deo, Garry Kubu, and Ramzan Khan, who add pace and versatility on the flanks.
Midfield control will come from Dave Radrigai, a tireless engine in the center of the pitch. He is complemented by Ravinesh Karan Singh, who brings composure and playmaking vision, and Merril Nand, who contributes energy and technical ability in advanced positions.
Solomon Islands imports Molis Gagame and Gagame Feni add power upfront. This combination of physical presence, tactical awareness, and attacking diversity positions Suva as one of the most complete teams heading into the competition.
Suva has been placed in Group B—one of the most competitive pools in the 2025 tournament. The group includes Nadi FC, Rewa FC, and Navua FC, each of which can disrupt Suva’s campaign.
Suva opens its tournament against Nadi FC on Friday, August 1, at noon. On Saturday, August 2, at 1:00 p.m., Suva faces Rewa FC. The final group match takes place on Sunday, August 3, at 10:00 a.m. against Navua FC.
