Forces united for a mission in 2025 Sukuna Bowl – FBC News
It’ll be more than just sports in this year’s Vodafone Ratu Sukuna Bowl for the Fiji Police Force and Republic of Fiji Military Forces. The Forces combine under the theme, United For Victory-Stronger Together Against Drugs And HIV. Speaking on behalf of the RFMF Commander at the Sukuna Bowl launch in Nasova today, Colonel Viliame Draunibaka, says both Forces have a common goal and that is to tackle the drugs and HIV issues in the country. Article continues after advertisement Deputy Commissioner of Police, Aporosa Lutunauga says it’s an important time to be united in this common fight. Lutunauga also says the absence of the Commissioner, Rusiate Tudravu shouldn’t be seen as a sign of fear. A total of 15 sports will be contested this year and the main rugby and soccer matches are going to be played at Subrail Park in Labasa for the first time on November 20th and 21st. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Ange Postecoglou vows to overcome Forest boo-boys
Your support helps us to tell the story From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it’s investigating the financials of Elon Musk’s pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, ‘The A Word’, which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging. At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story. The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it. Your support makes all the difference. Read more Nottingham Forest boss Ange Postecoglou admitted he heard the fan unrest following their 3-2 Europa League defeat to Midtjylland at the City Ground. Ousmane Diao tapped into an empty net for the opener but the home fans erupted when Dan Ndoye knocked in the equaliser only for Midtjylland to retake the lead through Mads Bech. Chris Wood had two goals disallowed for offside and the hosts were caught on the counter by Valdemar Andreasen who ultimately sealed the win with a third for the Danish side. Wood tucked away a stoppage-time penalty to half the deficit but it was not enough to stop boos from ringing around the City Ground as fans chanted “sacked in the morning” in the direction of Postecogclou. Asked if he was surprised how early the fans have turned on him, Postecoglou said: “The fans are disappointed. They’re allowed to have their opinion on it and I heard their opinion. “Nothing surprises me anymore in football. I guess it’s just the climate we’re in and it seems that’s the way things are going. “But that’s nothing I can control, my responsibility to make sure we try and get some wins for this football club and progress it and that’s what I’ll be focusing on.” The result left Postecogclou still without a win since taking over – losing four from six – and became the first permanent Forest boss to be winless in his first six games in 100 years. The Australian has faith he can turn things around though. He added: “Yes I do (believe things can turn) and nothing that I saw tonight changes any of that. “I get the mood around the place isn’t going to be great. I understand people’s kind of attitude at the moment, particularly towards me, but I never worry about that, it’s not unfamiliar territory for me. “I really believe that we’re on the right track and when we get through this period of uncertainty we’ll be on a good path. “Of course I prefer people were optimistic in what I’m doing, I get that, but I can only change that by winning games of football. I really believe the process in what we’re doing and don’t think we’re far from getting the results we need.” Midtjylland earned a second straight win in the competition and sit second in their standings following their victory. Boss Mike Tullberg was proud to pick up a win over a Premier League side in what he describes an “amazing” atmosphere. He said: “We played an incredible team from England and the guys did very well. “The home crowd was fantastic at the start of the game. To be in this atmosphere was amazing. Really, glad for us, a great win and hope Forest get their goals for the season.”
Were Celtic unlucky or just bad in latest European struggle?
Much of the post-match focus was on the non-goal, but Schmeichel’s mistake handed the initiative to Braga. Horta’s shot had an expected-goals value of just 0.027, but it evaded the 38-year-old’s goalkeeper’s grasp. “He’ll be really disappointed with it,” Rodgers said. “It’s a good strike and it’s obviously moved a little bit, but I haven’t spoken to him about it.” Beyond the defensive errors, this was yet another game where Celtic have failed to fire this term. Maeda is being played out of position to accommodate Tounekti, while every midfield combination Rodgers has tried has lacked cutting edge and energy. They were unable to break down Kazakh side Kairat Almaty over three-and-a-half hours as they dropped out of the Champions League. And this is the fewest matches into a campaign in which Celtic have had five games without scoring since the 1991-92 season. Supporters have highlighted the perceived lack of transfer ambition in the summer. But Celtic’s struggles stretch back to February, when they ran Bayern Munich close before being knocked out of the Champions League. Since then, they have failed to win 12 of 27 matches in all competitions. “It was a poor Celtic performance,” former Scotland forward James McFadden said on Sportsound. “Lacking quality, something we’re not used to seeing with Celtic. “I think the change of shape at half-time helped a little bit, but in the end Braga deserved the win.” Defensive errors and a lack of attacking quality is rarely a winning combination. “Not enough intent for me,” former Celtic goalkeeper Pat Bonner said. “Keeping the ball fine, moving it around, but not enough real intent in that final third. “Not able to defend and big, big mistakes from Schmeichel.”
Nottingham Forest still winless under Ange Postecoglou after Europa League loss
Your support helps us to tell the story From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it’s investigating the financials of Elon Musk’s pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, ‘The A Word’, which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging. At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story. The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it. Your support makes all the difference. Read more Nottingham Forest’s long-awaited return to European football at the City Ground after nearly three decades culminated in a 3-2 Europa League defeat to Midtjylland, as home supporters swiftly turned on new manager Ange Postecoglou. The Australian’s winless run extended to 22 days since his appointment, prompting frustrated fans to chant “sacked in the morning” while also voicing support for former boss Nuno Espirito Santo. This result marks a low for Forest, with Postecoglou becoming the first permanent manager in 100 years to fail to secure a victory in his initial six matches. The home supporters had waited with anticipation for their first taste of home European action since March 1996, but Ousmane Diao’s opener killed the buzz inside the stadium. Dan Ndoye equalised for Forest in the 22nd minute, only for Mads Bech to put the visitors in front again two minutes later. Midtjylland had their backs to the wall in the second period and Forest twice thought they levelled through substitute Chris Wood, but on both occasions the assistant referee’s offside flag cut celebrations short. Instead Midtjylland caught Forest on the counter-attack and added a third through Valdemar Andreasen, sparking the chants against Postecoglou, with Wood’s late penalty unable to stop the boos from ringing around the City Ground. Supporters in the Trent End unfurled a tifo reading ‘For a new generation our time has come’ as the players took to the field in an electric atmosphere. But the visitors stunned the Forest fans into silence in the 18th minute. Midtjylland were gifted a dangerous free-kick and they took advantage as Bech flicked Aral Simsir’s delivery into the path of Diao, who tapped into an empty net at the far post. It sparked a reaction from the hosts and Morgan Gibbs-White had a go from 20 yards, which forced Elias Olafsson into his first save of the evening. Forest levelled four minutes after the opener. Gibbs-White broke the offside trap to latch on to a ball over the top and fed it across the box to Ndoye, who swept home to make it 1-1. But Forest soon found themselves behind again after they failed to deal with another set-piece. Victor Jensen’s corner came off the head of Philip Billing and the ball dropped nicely inside the six-yard box for Bech, who poked home. Forest started the second half on the front foot and Olafsson had to be alert to keep out Neco Williams’ effort from distance before Callum Hudson-Odoi saw one fly wide. The hosts looked to be edging closer to an equaliser with the visitors apparently happy to hold what they had and Ibrahim Sangare was next to try his luck from distance with a shot which went the wrong side of a post. Postecoglou turned to Wood and the striker was twice denied an equaliser by the offside flag in the space of three minutes. Midtjylland added an 88th-minute third, with Postecoglou left standing in the dugout with his hands on his head as Andreasen broke and tucked his finish past Matz Sels. Forest were given a chance to cut the deficit after VAR spotted a foul on Anderson, but Wood’s penalty was not enough to save them from defeat.
Ryder’s Uso Tasi interested in Super Seven – FBC News
[Photo Credit: Uso Tasi/Facebook] Former Fiji 7s star, William Ryder, and his Uso Tasi club in the Solomon Islands are interested in playing at the 2026 McDonald’s Fiji Coral Coast 7s qualifying tournament, the Super Seven 7s at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka in December. This was revealed by Super Seven Tournament Director and former Fiji 7s winger, Randall Kamea. Ryder has been playing and assisting Uso Tasi recently. Article continues after advertisement Kamea says the Solomon Islands side is the only overseas team that’s shown an interest so far. According to Kamea, the first 24 teams that pay their $1000 registration fees are going to be accommodated. From the 24 teams, the top seven will automatically qualify for the Coral Coast 7s next year and have a shot at the $50,000 prize money for the winner. Registrations are now open and will close on November 6th. Tournament official, Masada Vuikadavu, says one club has paid for two teams to take part. The Super Seven 7s will be held at Lawaqa Park on December 6th. Meanwhile, the Coral Coast 7s will be played in January. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Why Pirates will beat Chiefs and Sundowns for the league
Orlando Pirates are undoubtedly the team to beat this season, having found their rhythm after some early struggles. The Buccaneers have won seven consecutive matches across all competitions and have already secured the MTN8 trophy. Last season, they finished second in the Betway Premiership, with their standout achievement being a run to the CAF Champions League semi-finals. Currently, Pirates sit third in the league, six points behind the leaders, Mamelodi Sundowns. However, the Sea Robbers have three games in hand over their rivals. Under the guidance of new coach Abdeslam Ouaddou, the Buccaneers have been unstoppable in their last ten matches across all competitions. Although they lost their first two league games, Pirates consistently played well and created scoring opportunities. With new players finding their form, the team feels like a well-rounded project for Ouaddou, who initially came with few expectations. A league title or CAF Champions League triumph could quickly establish him as a hero among the “Happy People.” What makes Pirates dangerous this season? The team boasts depth in every position, thanks to numerous signings made during the transfer window. Players like Oswin Appollis, Tshepang Moremi, and Kamogelo Sebelebele have added pace and goals to the attacking front, while Sipho Mbule, Sihle Nduli, and Masindi Nemtajela have brought new energy to the midfield. In defence, Pirates have always had solid coverage, but with young talents like Lebone Seema and Mbekezeli Mbokazi stepping up, it appears Ouaddou has built a formidable squad this season. Experienced players like Nkosinathi Sibisi and Tapelo Xoki are finding it challenging to secure a spot in the starting lineup. Upfront, Tshegofatso Mabasa has been firing this season and with Relebohile Mofokeng and Apollis to assist, he might get become the club’s leading goalscorer very soon. Orlando Pirates have not won the league in 13 yeaes but came close in 2019, only to lose the title to rivals Sundowns on the last day of the 2018/19 season. Will this be the Buccaneers’ year to break league drought?
Clive Tyldesley singles out BBC football commentator for praise
Clive Tyldesley singles out BBC football commentator for praise
Power Volt energises Suva FC for IDC 2025 – FBC News
[Photo Credit: Fiji FA] Suva Football Club has received a major boost ahead of next week’s FMF Inter-District Championship in Ba, with Power Volt Services Pte Limited coming on board as the team’s naming-rights sponsor. The partnership, unveiled at a special announcement in Suva, marks the first-ever team sponsorship for Power Volt and will see the Capital City side compete as Power Volt Suva FC in the prestigious tournament at 4R Stadium, Govind Park. Managing Director Vinit Narayan, a lifelong supporter of Suva football, described the sponsorship as a personal milestone. Article continues after advertisement “This occasion is very special because for the first time, my company is sponsoring a team—and it could only ever be Suva FC. Suva has always been close to my heart, not just as a football club, but as a proud symbol of teamwork, resilience and unity for our Capital City. Power Volt is proud to stand with Suva FC as they chase IDC glory.” Narayan also paid tribute to former Suva Football president and current Fiji FA Vice President, Ritesh Pratap, for helping bring the partnership to life. Suva FC president Nitin Singh welcomed the sponsorship, describing it as a show of faith in the club’s players, fans and future. “With Power Volt’s backing, our boys will take the field with renewed energy and pride. We promise to honour this partnership with discipline, hard work and results.” He also urged fans to rally behind the team as they begin their quest for IDC success. Suva will meet Lautoka in their first match at 6pm next Tuesday. You can catch live commentary of all the matches on Radio Fiji Two. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
‘Relaxed’ England ‘chalk and cheese’ from Ashes – Sciver-Brunt
England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt says England are “chalk and cheese” compared to how they felt after the Ashes defeat at the beginning of the year. Sciver-Brunt took over as captain after the 16-0 thrashing at the hands of Australia and prepares to lead her side in a World Cup for the first time, with their opening game against South Africa in Guwahati on Friday. READ MORE: England ‘chalk and cheese’ from Ashes – Sciver-Brunt
Johnny Nelson reveals why he is backing Conor Benn to win Chris Eubank Jr rematch
Your support helps us to tell the story From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it’s investigating the financials of Elon Musk’s pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, ‘The A Word’, which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging. At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story. The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it. Your support makes all the difference. Read more Johnny Nelson believes Conor Benn is capable of turning the tables and claiming victory in his rematch with Chris Eubank Jr on 15 November. The former cruiserweight world champion revealed his analysis of Eubank Jr’s performance in the first fight leads him to believe that “Next Gen” cannot do any better when he steps in the ring with Benn again. “Personally, I just think the last performance of Chris, I thought, ‘You’ve got nothing left,’” Nelson told talkSPORT. “There’s no more improvement on what I’m seeing there, and I know there was the weight issue in the build-up. I thought there was no more improvement, and that’s what worries me.” Eubank Jr and Benn went through 12 rounds of gruelling combat in April, putting on a fight of the year contender, with both men on the brink of collapse after throwing everything they had at one another. Eubank Jr walked away as the deserving victor via unanimous decision. Subscribe to DAZN now to watch over 185 fights a year Eubank Jr celebrates with his father after his victory over Benn in April (Bradley Collyer/PA) (PA Wire) But Nelson believes Eubank Jr being taken the distance by Benn, who had come up from welterweight, is a sign that the smaller man can “without a doubt” win the rematch if he makes the necessary adjustments. “He couldn’t have done any more,” Nelson said. “If he could’ve knocked out Conor Benn in that fight, he would have done. He just couldn’t get rid of him.” Going into the rematch, Eubank Jr, now 36, will be seven years Benn’s elder and Nelson feels this could be a deciding factor if Benn can force the pace of the fight for 12 rounds. “Conor knows I’ve got to maintain that pace and make him work for at least 2 minutes and 45 seconds a round,” Nelson explained. “He [Eubank Jr] is in there a young man who’s got the natural speed and the agility.” Watch the biggest fights and best fighters with a DAZN subscription A DAZN subscription provides access to over 185 fights a year across a range of combat sports from the world’s best promoters. Enjoy 185+ fights a year on DAZN, the Global Home of Boxing Never miss a fight from top promoters. Watch on your devices anywhere, anytime. Buy Now ADVERTISEMENT. If you sign up to this service we will earn commission. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent. Enjoy 185+ fights a year on DAZN, the Global Home of Boxing Never miss a fight from top promoters. Watch on your devices anywhere, anytime. Buy Now ADVERTISEMENT. If you sign up to this service we will earn commission. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent. For pricing and more information, click here