Fiji depth shines at Coral Coast 7s – FBC News
McDonald’s Coral Coast Fiji 7s co-founder Jay Whyte says the 2026 tournament once again showcased the extraordinary depth of local rugby talent, with Fijian club sides proving they can match it with top international teams. A pulsating Cup final capped off three days of high-quality rugby, played in front of packed stands and an electric atmosphere. Whyte believes the performances at Lawaqa Park have reinforced the tournament’s role as a genuine pathway to higher honors. Article continues after advertisement “The quality of our club teams in Fiji is so high they could easily put on a white jersey and be competitive anywhere in the world.” He pointed to the run of the champion Yaro Chiefs and finalists Ravuka as further evidence of Fiji’s untapped depth, noting that several players would now be firmly on the radar of national selectors. Whyte adds that interest for next year’s tournament has already begun to build, with local and overseas teams enquiring about spots. With the format set to remain largely unchanged, he says the focus will stay on delivering a world-class 7s event that continues to elevate players, fans and Fiji’s reputation on the global sevens stage. The 14th edition of the tournament concluded yesterday at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka where Brisk Birdland Brothers claimed the Youth title after defeating Village Boys 19-12, Fijiana 7s succesfully retained the women’s title after 22-5 win against China 1 and Yaro Chiefs creating history winning their first ever title after a thrilling encounter where Ravuka Sharks went down 28-12. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Dagaga proud of team effort – FBC News
St Theresa Nukubalavu Under-20 captain Rafaele Dagaga remains upbeat despite his side’s semifinal loss to Village Boys in the youth category at the McDonald’s Coral Coast 7s, describing the experience as a valuable learning curve for the young team. Competing in the tournament for the first time, Nukubalavu exceeded expectations by reaching the semifinals and matching up against more experienced opposition. Dagaga said the loss was disappointing but highlighted the bigger picture for his squad’s development. Article continues after advertisement “Yeah of course we’re disappointed with the loss but we’ll take the learning,” Dagaga said. “We did not expect to even make it to the semifinal as this is our first time participating in the Coral Coast 7s.” The young captain added that the experience has given the team clear areas to improve as they look ahead to future competitions. “We’ll go back and work on our errors,” he said, confident the exposure at the Coral Coast 7s will help shape the team moving forward.” The Coral Coast 7s continues at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Fijiana defend Coral Coast women’s title – FBC News
The Fiji Airways Fijiana 7s have successfully defended their McDonald’s Coral Coast Women’s 7s title after a dominant 22–7 victory over China 1 in a rain-affected final at Lawaqa Park. Playing in wet conditions following heavy rainfall earlier in the day, the Fijiana side showed composure and control from the opening whistle. Two early tries in the first half gave the defending champions a 10–0 lead, as they capitalised on territory and possession despite the slippery surface. Article continues after advertisement With the sun beginning to break through in the second half, China 1 mounted a response and crossed for a try to narrow the margin to 10–5, briefly shifting the momentum of the contest. However, the Fijiana quickly regained control, scoring again to extend the lead to 17–5 and shut down any hopes of a Chinese comeback. The home side sealed the final in style with another try late in the match, pushing the score out to 22–7 and confirming their status as champions once again. The victory sees the Fiji Airways Fijiana 7s retain their Coral Coast Women’s title, capping off a strong tournament campaign and reinforcing their dominance on home soil. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Birdland Brothers crowned youth champions – FBC News
Brisk Birdland Brothers from Kadavu have been crowned BRED Bank Youth champions after edging Village Boys 19–12 in an exciting Cup Final at the McDonald’s Coral Coast Fiji 7s. The youth final delivered a high-tempo contest, with both sides trading physical exchanges and showcasing the depth of grassroots rugby talent on display throughout the tournament. Birdland Brothers proved clinical when it mattered most, taking their chances to build a narrow but decisive lead. Article continues after advertisement Village Boys stayed in the fight until the final whistle, applying pressure and forcing defensive stands, but Birdland’s composure and discipline saw them close out the match to seal the title. The victory marks a significant achievement for the Kadavu-based side, underlining the strength of youth rugby pathways outside the main centres and highlighting the Coral Coast Fiji 7s as a key platform for emerging talent. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Yaro Chiefs make history with Coral Coast title – FBC News
Yaro Chiefs have written a new chapter in the McDonald’s Coral Coast Fiji 7s history, winning the title in their first-ever appearance at the tournament after defeating Ravuka Sharks 28–12 in the final. Ravuka Sharks made a strong start, scoring first in the opening half and adding a second try to take early control of the match. Yaro Chiefs responded with two crucial tries of their own to stay in the contest, edging ahead 14–12 at halftime. Article continues after advertisement The second half belonged to Yaro Chiefs. They lifted the tempo, tightened their defence and crossed twice more to pull clear, shutting Ravuka out and sealing a memorable victory. The win marks a historic milestone for Yaro Chiefs, announcing their arrival on the Coral Coast stage in emphatic fashion and capping off a dream debut campaign. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Late goal denies Bula FC winning start to OFC Pro League opener – FBC News
[PICTURE: OFC PRO LEAGUE] A goal in the dying seconds of their opening OFC Pro League match denied Extra Supermarket Bula FC a memorable victory, as Vanuatu United struck just before the final hooter to force a 2–2 draw. Vanuatu United opened the scoring in the 20th minute, converting a header from a corner kick. Stephane Auvary’s side responded 10 minutes later through captain Roy Krishna, who also headed home from a corner to level the score. Article continues after advertisement Bula FC then took the lead after the break when Nabil Begg slotted home from a cross in the 69th minute. The Fijian side held firm for most of the remainder of the match, but heartbreak followed moments before full-time when goalkeeper Didier Desperez was unable to keep out a long-range effort from outside the box. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Krishna calls for support, match to broadcast live on FBC 2 – FBC News
Extra Supermarket Bula FC captain Roy Krishna is calling on the Fijian community in Auckland to turn out in numbers today as the team makes its OFC Pro League debut against Vanuatu United this afternoon. Krishna says the squad has put in the hard work over the past few weeks in camp and is eager to put everything they have learned into action on the field. He adds that while there is pressure to perform, the players are proud to be part of Fiji’s first professional football club and are motivated by the opportunity to create history. Article continues after advertisement “For our boys, it’s a privilege to be part of the team. We’ve already created history just by being part of it, now it is time to perform.” The two sides will clash at 2pm at Taharoto Park in Takapuna, Auckland, with live coverage available on FBC 2. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Nadolo pleased as Drua settle in – FBC News
The McDonald’s Coral Coast 7s proves to be a crucial part of the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua’s preparations as they build towards the upcoming Shop N Save Supermarket Super Rugby Pacific season, with Drua 7s head coach Nemani Nadolo highlighting the tournament’s importance in shaping the squad. Competing in front of home supporters and against strong opposition, Nadolo says the tournament offers invaluable match exposure at this stage of the pre-season, allowing both senior and development players to grow into the Drua environment. Article continues after advertisement Insert: 170126MS Nadolo“A competition like this that’s really strong, it’s up there. It’s great exposure for our senior players but also our development boys. It gives them an opportunity to taste what it is to wear the Fiji Drua jersey and it’s great for us.”Nadolo noted that the team looked more composed in their latest outing at the Coral Coast 7s, with players beginning to express themselves and work more cohesively as a unit. I just think we’re a bit more settled today. We know how good we can be and just to see the boys express themselves. For me it was more about just going out there and expressing themselves and working together as a unit, and I think we showed that today.” He added that the tournament is also playing an important role in managing player workloads, particularly for those returning from injury, as the Drua fine-tune their preparations ahead of Super Rugby Pacific. The Coral Coast 7s continues today at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka and you can watch it LIVE on FBC Sports. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Australian football side visits Lovu Community – FBC News
[Source: Fiji FA Just Play/ Facebook] The Lovu community in Lautoka was alive with excitement this morning as members of Australia’s Joeys Under-17 football team paid a special visit to the area. The team is currently in the country on a tour that includes a series of matches against Fiji’s national Under-19 side. During their visit, the Joeys conducted football drills and played practice matches with children from the community, creating an energetic and inspiring atmosphere. Article continues after advertisement Following the on-field activities, team members spoke about the importance of inclusion and gender equality in sport, encouraging young players to embrace these values both on and off the field. Australia’s Joeys will play their first match against Fiji’s Under-19 team tomorrow at Churchill Park in Lautoka. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
China 2 stun NZ, march into semis – FBC News
[Source: File] Former New Zealand men’s 7s rep Rocky Khan has praised the resilience and growth of his China Women’s Sevens development side after a surprise pool-stage victory over the New Zealand Women’s 7s development team secured them a place in the semifinals of the McDonald’s Fiji Coral Coast 7s tournament. The win marks a significant milestone for China 2, who are using the tournament as a key development opportunity while gaining valuable exposure to high-intensity sevens rugby in Fiji. Khan said the experience of competing in Fiji has been just as important as the result itself, with the players embracing both the rugby challenge and the local culture. Article continues after advertisement “I’m just really proud of the girls. China 2 is our development team, so the whole experience is invaluable for us, just to come here and play rugby in Fiji. To experience the Fijian culture and the rugby culture here as well, everything is a learning experience for us, and this win is just a bonus.” Khan acknowledged the physical demands of the tournament, particularly the heat and pressure, but believes the team has shown strong composure to reach the last four. “We’re in the semi-final now, so that’s a massive win in itself. We’ll focus on recovery, make sure the girls get a good sleep, and hopefully we can come back and put in a good performance tomorrow. The Coral Coast 7s continues at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka, and you can watch it LIVE on FBC Sports. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.