Suva, Fiji: The stage is set for the semi-finals of the Digicel Fiji FA Cup Tournament (Fiji FACT) 2023, taking place tomorrow at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva. Football enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the action-packed matches that will determine the finalists.
In the first semi-final, Hyperchem Pharmacy Lautoka FC will face off against the Extra Supermarket-sponsored Labasa FC at 2pm. Both teams bring their own compelling narratives to the table, with Lautoka chasing a trophy that has eluded them for 21 years, while Labasa aims to rekindle their past glory, having last won the tournament in 2015.
Labasa, known as the Babasiga Lions, boasts an impressive track record in the Fiji FACT, having secured the title four times and finishing as runners-up on nine occasions. On the other hand, Lautoka, also known as the Blues, has won the tournament twice and been runners-up three times.
In the Digicel Fiji FACT 2023, Lautoka remained undefeated, while Labasa stumbled in their opener against the Delta Tigers. However, Labasa showed resilience, bouncing back from the initial setback to secure a draw against Nadi (2-2) and then sealing an impressive 5-2 victory over Tailevu Naitasiri to earn their spot in the semi-finals. Lautoka had a strong start with a 2-1 win over Suva FC, a 4-2 victory against Navua FC, and a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Ba FC.
As the semi-finals approach, Labasa can count on the support of their passionate fans, who will bring their lively drums (Taasa-Uddha) to create an electric atmosphere reminiscent of the Group Stages. Lautoka, on the other hand, will strive to maintain their unbeaten run and finally end their 21-year drought in the Fiji FACT.
Both coaches, Thomas Vulivuli and Ronil Kumar, face a significant challenge in their coaching roles, as they step into their first major tournament. Drawing from their illustrious playing careers, they aim to showcase their coaching prowess and lead their respective teams to glory.
Vulivuli attributes Labasa’s journey to the semi-finals to their tactical flexibility, employing different formations throughout the tournament. Labasa will continue to exhibit a modern-day style of football under Vulivuli’s guidance.
Labasa’s solid defense, led by veteran goalkeeper Simione Tamanisau and supported by Lemika Gonerau, Sekove Naivakananumi, Edwin Sahayam, and Taniela Waqa, provides a sturdy foundation. Their forward line, featuring Akeimi Ralulu, Iliaya Naiyasi, Rusiate Doidoi, Christopher Wasasasala, and Ashneel Raju, showcased their potency with a remarkable 5-2 victory over Tailevu Naitasiri. If Labasa maintains the same lineup and strategy, Lautoka can expect a formidable challenge.
Lautoka, boasting an equally talented side, remains confident in their lineup heading into the clash against Labasa. Coach Ronil Kumar emphasizes the importance of team cohesion and maintaining their winning momentum to secure a spot in the final on Sunday.
The second semi-final promises fireworks as AK Plumbing/Glamada Rewa FC and Rooster Chicken Ba FC square off at 4.30 pm. Both teams have impressively navigated the Group Stages without a single loss, setting the stage for a thrilling encounter.
According to coach Imdaad Ali, Ba FC has demonstrated resilience throughout the tournament, and they aim to sustain their form in the semis. Known for their never-say-die attitude, Ba FC’s inclusion of Digicel Fiji U20 representatives adds an extra layer of determination. Rewa, commonly referred to as the Men-in-Black, holds the record for the most Fiji FACT victories but has been longing for another taste of success.
As the anticipation grows, football fans eagerly await the semi-final clashes, anticipating intense battles, outstanding performances, and memorable moments that will shape the path to the prestigious Fiji FACT final.
