Suva looks one of the stronger sides, at least on paper, at the 2022 Punjas Battle of the Giants tournament.
The Capital City side has proved they are front runners for the title after a solid performance in the Digicel Premier League and winning the first major tournament, Digicel Fiji FACT.
History is not on their side, though. It has been 26 years since the Capital City tasted BOG success, and they have never won the title in Lautoka. They did reach the BOG final in 2018, though.
Suva’s last victory was in 1995 when they defeated Navua 2-1 at the National Stadium. The Capital City side has reached the final three times in 2006, 2011 and 2018
In the tournament’s illustrious history, the Capital City has had its name engraved on the trophy only three times and that was in 1982, 1988 and 1995. As coach Babs Khan and his team know, Suva’s attack has to deliver if they are to break their 26-year BOG hoodoo.
They have countries top players like goalkeeper Akuila Mataisuva, defenders Remeuru Takiate, Inoke Turaqalailai, Simone Nabenu, Malakai Rakula, Meli Codro, Waisake Navunigasau, Joeli Ranitu, Filipe Baravilala, midfielders Shahil Dave, Ravinesh Karan Singh, Anish Khem, Vanuatu international Ronaldo Wilkins and strikers Azariah Soromon, Samuela Drudru, Sanaila Waqanicakau, and youngster Amitesh Krishna.
Suva starts their campaign against Labasa on Friday, August 26 at 12midday, faces Nadi at 3 pm on Saturday, and plays their final Group A match against Nadroga on Sunday at 11 am.
