With the beat of drums echoing around Subrail Park, Roylux Realty Ba FC president Praneel Dayal could not hold back his emotions after the Men-in-Black ended a 16-year wait to lift the BiC Fiji FACT 2026 trophy on Sunday.
Moments after Ba defeated IRA Group Navua FC 3-1 in a penalty shootout following a scoreless 120 minutes, Dayal was surrounded by jubilant supporters as black-and-white flags waved across the ground. Joined by his brother, Jai Dayal, the pair danced to the rhythm of the drums with hundreds of passionate Ba fans in a celebration that reflected the significance of the victory.
Earlier, an emotional Dayal embraced captain Ilisoni Lolaivalu and head coach Ravinesh Kumar with tears streaming down his face, repeatedly saying, “This is our first.” He was referring to Lolaivalu’s first BiC Fiji FACT title as Ba captain and Kumar’s maiden Fiji FACT triumph as a head coach. The victory also marked Dayal’s first Fiji FACT championship since becoming president of the Men-in-Black.
Unable to hide his emotions, Dayal dedicated the victory to the loyal Ba supporters who had stood by the team through the years.
“This trophy is for every Ba supporter who never stopped believing. Sixteen years is a long wait, but today our faith has been rewarded,” Dayal said.
“When the final penalty went in, all the emotions came out. These tears are tears of happiness because we have brought the Fiji FACT trophy back to Ba. Watching our fans dance, beat the drums and celebrate with us is a moment I will cherish forever. This victory belongs to every Ba supporter.”
Ba showed resilience throughout the final, with neither side able to break the deadlock in regulation or extra time before the Men-in-Black held their nerve in the penalty shootout to seal a 3-1 victory.
The triumph ended a 16-year BiC Fiji FACT title drought for one of Fiji football’s most successful clubs, sparking unforgettable celebrations as players, officials and supporters still celebrating.
