Naitasiri Rugby backing players on and off the field – FBC News
Naitasiri Rugby President Colonel Aseri Rokoura has highlighted the crucial role local initiatives play in helping players and their families thrive both on and off the field. Speaking about the Koicolo Rakavi Cooperative, Rokoura says it’s more than just a commercial venture—it’s a lifeline for rural rugby communities. “The initiative is still ongoing, and it’s designed to help the agricultural sectors for our rural clubs. It’s not only about supporting the players, but also their families.” Article continues after advertisement Rokoura explains that many players travel long distances for training camps, often leaving their families behind. The cooperative ensures that families are included and supported, particularly during playoffs, while also encouraging fans to engage with the initiative. Every purchase of merchandise from Jacks of Fiji or the Koicolo Rakavi Cooperative goes beyond the product, directly benefiting players and their families. Through programs like this, Naitasiri Rugby is nurturing not just athletes, but a network of support that strengthens communities and helps the game thrive in rural areas. Meanwhile, Jacks awarded a $10,000 bonus to the team for winning the INKK Farebrother Sullivan trophy. The side are currently preparing for the Skipper Cup semifinals this Saturday with the venue yet to be confirmed. You can watch the game LIVE on FBC channel. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Former Everton winger Royston Drenthe in hospital after suffering stroke
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 Former Everton and Real Madrid winger Royston Drenthe is in hospital after suffering a stroke last week. The 38-year-old was admitted to hospital on Friday and is receiving ‘good care’. The news shared by FC de Rebellen, an agency that represents former footballers. Their statement reads: “Last Friday, Royston Drenthe suffered a stroke. Drenthe is currently receiving good care and is in good hands. The team and those involved hope for a speedy recovery.” An ex-Netherlands international, Drenthe began his playing career with Feyenoord before moving to Real Madrid in 2007, winning the La Liga title a year later. He went on loan to Everton in 2011-12 and had spells at other clubs included Reading and Sheffield Wednesday. Everton wished him a speedy return to full health and posted on X: “Everyone at Everton wishes Royston Drenthe a full and speedy return to full health after reports he’s been taken to hospital.” Meanwhile Reading added: “Everyone at Reading Football Club wishes former Royal Royston Drenthe a speedy recovery after he was taken ill on Friday. Get well soon Royston.” Feyenoord posted a photo of Drenthe with the caption: “On behalf of all of Feyenoord: we are thinking of you and wish you all strength and power.”
Auvray Appointed as Fiji National Men’s Football Team Head Coach
The Fiji Football Association (Fiji FA) has officially announced the appointment of Frenchman Stéphane Auvray as the new head coach of the national men’s football team, signaling a new chapter for Fijian football ahead of the 2026 season. The 44-year-old former professional midfielder brings with him a wealth of international experience and technical knowledge. Auvray’s career spanned clubs across several leagues, including Major League Soccer’s Kansas City Wizards and Brunei DPMM FC in the Singapore Premier League. Auvray also made his mark as captain of the Guadeloupe national team, where his calm leadership and tactical awareness in midfield earned him wide respect. His playing career, defined by discipline and composure, laid a strong foundation for his transition into coaching. Following his retirement, Auvray took on the role of head coach for the Saint Martin national team in 2019, before joining FIFA as a Talent Coach in 2023 — where he focused on developing young players and supporting football programs across different regions. His appointment represents a fresh start for Fiji Football, as the association looks to strengthen the national team’s performance and structure. Fiji FA believes Auvray’s experience at both professional and international levels will be key to building a stronger, more competitive side leading into the 2026 football season. Fiji FA President Rajesh Patel expressed confidence in the new coach’s ability to bring professionalism, structure, and long-term vision to the squad. “We are thrilled to have someone of Stéphane’s caliber join us,” Patel said. “His background, both as a player and as a coach, aligns with our mission to elevate the standard of football in Fiji and prepare our teams for higher levels of competition.” With his blend of European discipline and Caribbean flair, Auvray is expected to focus on player development, tactical improvements, and a modernized playing style that reflects the evolving global game.
Kaizer Chiefs TOP THE TABLE in a surprise metric
Kaizer Chiefs have improved dramatically in one key area. However, that comes with a massive side portion of caution. So far in the Betway Premiership, the Glamour Boys are managing more shots on target per match than any other side. Will this convert to goals? Nigerian fan implies corruption by Kaizer Chiefs star in Bafana match Kaizer Chiefs are less shy to shoot this season Via Goal: Chiefs currently top the table for shots on target per match with 6.8. However, their tally of eight goals scored has them at joint-seventh in the Betway Premiership. Clearly, their finishing needs more work than their ability to fashion opportunities to shoot. Sundowns (5.1) and Pirates (4.7) are second and third, respectively. Kaizer Chiefs news and rumours: Shabalala, Ndamane, Hlongwane Chiefs are also doing well on xG Expected goals (xG) is a statistical metric that measures the quality of a goal-scoring chance. It represents the probability that a shot will result in a goal, ranging from 0 to 1, and is calculated using data from past shots and variables like distance, angle, player position, and other situational factors. So far, Sundowns have an xG of 16.1, and they’ve scored 17 times, so they’re JUST outperforming the xG. Chiefs’ xG is a healthy 11.8, but with eight goals, they’re underperforming badly. Will a clash with Siwelele start an upturn in form? Chiefs meet Siwelele on Wednesday, 22 October at 19:30.
Kylian Mbappe nets late winner as Real Madrid beat nine-man Getafe to go top
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 Kylian Mbappe scored a late winner as Real Madrid returned to the top of LaLiga with a 1-0 victory at nine-man Getafe on Sunday. Getafe were frustrating their big city neighbours until substitute Allan Nyom was sent off following a clash with Vinicius Junior, 13 minutes from time. Mbappe took advantage to score three minutes later and Getafe’s woes were compounded when Alex Sancris was also dismissed for a second bookable offence. There were three other games in the Spanish top flight on a day when players continued to protest against LaLiga’s decision to sanction a match between Barcelona and Villarreal in Miami. Players made their disapproval known by refusing to move for the first 15 seconds after kick-off in matches. In those other fixtures, Elche v Athletic Bilbao – teams that are seventh and eighth respectively – finished goalless, while Celta Vigo and Real Sociedad drew 1-1 and Rayo Vallecano won 3-0 at Levante. Rafael Leao scored twice, including a penalty winner four minutes from time, as AC Milan came from behind to beat Fiorentina 2-1 and return to the top of Serie A. Robin Gosens had put Fiorentina ahead at the San Siro, 10 minutes into the second half. Meanwhile, Como claimed a stunning first victory over Juventus since 1952 with a 2-0 win at the Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium. Marc-Oliver Kempf and Nico Paz scored as Cesc Fabregas’ side climbed above Juve into sixth. Bologna are one place above them in fifth after a 2-0 win at Cagliari, while the Genoa v Parma and Atalanta v Lazio games both ended 0-0. Vincenzo Grifo struck three minutes from time as Freiburg earned a 2-2 draw at home to Eintracht Frankfurt – for whom Jonathan Burkardt scored twice – in the Bundesliga. Hoffenheim won convincingly, 3-0, at St Pauli. Ligue 1 bottom side Metz are still awaiting their first win after slumping to a 4-0 loss at Toulouse. Frank Magri and Aron Donnum scored inside the first eight minutes, while Yann Gboho and Charlie Cresswell also netted and the visitors had Sadibou Sane sent off. Samson Baidoo scored the winner as Lens moved up to fourth with a 2-1 win over Paris FC, while the game of the day saw Lorient and Brest draw 3-3. Rennes and Auxerre also drew 2-2 and Lille claimed a 2-1 success at Nantes.
Kamikamica praises young Bati squad’s spirit and growth – FBC News
[file photo] Vodafone Fiji Bati captain Tui Kamikamica believes the team’s growing chemistry and emphasis on enjoyment are key to helping younger players settle into the international environment. With several new faces in the squad, he says the leadership group has been focused on building confidence and camaraderie throughout camp to ensure everyone feels part of the same mission. Insert: 201025MS Kamikamica “For me, the main focus is trying to make sure they enjoy themselves first in camp. We’ve got older players and young players in the group, but at the same time, they know how to play rugby league. We want to make sure we make them enjoy leading to the game and training each day.” He said that enjoyment and preparation go hand in hand, noting that individual discipline during the week is what gives players confidence on game day. Kamikamica added that the squad’s mix of experienced and emerging players has created a strong team culture both on and off the field, something that continues to define the Fiji Bati identity. “At the same time, we want to make sure we enjoy each other’s company, because a mix of senior players and young boys, the more we can do that off-field, it’s going to even make us stronger on the field.” The Fiji Bati displayed that unity and spirit in their 44–24 victory over the Cook Islands on Saturday, their first win of the 2025 Pacific Bowl Championship. The Fiji Bati are on bye this week and will take on the Kumuls next weekend. All Pacific championship matches are live and free on FBC Sports. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
FIJI FA ANNOUNCES NEW FUTSAL RULE
The Fiji Football Association has announced a major change to its futsal player eligibility policy, confirming that from next year, players will have to choose between playing futsal or football, with dual participation no longer permitted. The announcement was made by Fiji FA Chief Executive Officer Mohammed Yusuf during his closing remarks at the Extra Futsal IDC 2025 at the Vodafone Arena in Suva, following a highly competitive four-day tournament. Yusuf said the new rule aims to improve focus, fitness, and professionalism among players in both formats of the game. “From next year, futsal players will play futsal, and football players will play football,” Yusuf stated. “This change will allow players to dedicate their full time and training to one code, which will help raise the standard of both games across the country.” He also commended sponsor Extra Supermarket for its continued partnership and support of the tournament. “Extra Supermarket has been a loyal supporter of futsal development in Fiji. Their commitment over the years has helped us promote the sport, reward players, and create more growth opportunities,” Yusuf said. Fiji National Futsal Head Coach Jose Gerardo also welcomed the new policy, describing it as a positive and necessary step for developing specialist futsal players. “It’s an excellent move from Fiji FA,” Gerardo said. “Futsal requires a different skill set and tactical approach. Having players dedicated fully to futsal will make our national team stronger and more competitive internationally.” Gerardo also expressed his satisfaction with the overall standard of the Extra Futsal IDC 2025, praising the intensity and skill level shown by all participating teams. “The competition was very strong this year — I’ve seen several players with real potential to represent Fiji in the near future,” he said. The tournament concluded with Suva Futsal retaining their title after a 3–0 victory over Tailevu Naitasiri Futsal in the Grand Final, marking their second consecutive championship win. Yusuf thanked all participating districts, officials, and fans for their contribution to another successful tournament, noting that the future of futsal in Fiji looks brighter than ever.
Match of the day: Allowing Bryan Mbeumo goal was right decision – Shay Given
Match of the Day pundit Shay Given says that referee Michael Oliver made the right decision to allow Bryan Mbeumo’s goal to stand in Manchester United’s 2-1 win over Liverpool in the Premier League. WATCH MORE: Maguire heads Man Utd to victory against Liverpool Available to UK users only.
Tel Aviv derby between Maccabi and Hapoel abandoned after fan ‘riots and violence’
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 The Israeli Premier League derby between Maccabi Tel Aviv and Hapoel Tel Aviv was abandoned before a ball was kicked on Sunday night after violent clashes between rival fans and police. Social media footage showed that smoke grenades and fireworks were thrown onto the pitch at the Bloomfield Stadium in Tel Aviv, with 12 civilians and three police officers known to be injured at this stage. A police statement detailed that “disorderly conduct” also took place outside the stadium. Nine suspects have been arrested, with 16 others detained for further questioning, and the match was called off with the police citing the “endangerment of human lives.” open image in gallery The Tel Aviv derby was abandoned on Sunday night after fans threw fireworks and smoke grenades onto the pitch (Israel Police) The incident comes three days after the much-criticised call to ban Maccabi fans from attending next month’s Europa League match at Aston Villa in Birmingham, after a decision from Birmingham’s Safety Advisory Group (SAG). An Israeli police statement on Sunday’s events read: “Disorderly conduct, riots, object throwing, smoke grenades, fireworks, injured police officers, and damage to stadium infrastructure — this is not a football match, this is a serious public disturbance and violence. “In light of the disturbances and the endangerment of human lives ahead of the scheduled football match at Bloomfield stadium, the Israel police has informed the teams, team management, and referees that it has been decided not to allow the match to take place. “We call on the fans to remain in place until a calm and orderly dispersal takes place.” A Maccabi statement read: “Following the police’s decision, it was determined that the Tel Aviv derby will not take place tonight.” Online footage also shows stones being thrown onto the pitch from the stands. Police announced the abandonment 20 minutes after the scheduled 8:30pm kick-off time, with around 25,000 spectators in the stands for the much-anticipated match. Meanwhile, earlier on Sunday, energy secretary Ed Miliband warned that nowhere in the UK should be a “no-go area” for Jews and Israelis, after the decision to ban Maccabi fans for the European game on 6 November. open image in gallery Maccabi Tel Aviv supporters have been banned from attending the match at Villa Park on 6 November (PA Wire) Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer condemned the decision last week, saying: “This is the wrong decision. We will not tolerate antisemitism on our streets. “The role of the police is to ensure all football fans can enjoy the game, without fear of violence or intimidation.” Birmingham’s Safety Advisory Group – the body responsible for issuing safety certificates for every match at Villa Park – had issued the ban after West Midlands Police said they had classified the fixture as high risk. They stated this decision had been made based on “current intelligence and previous incidents”, which included last season’s Europa League match between Ajax and Maccabi Tel Aviv in Amsterdam. Violent clashes between pro-Palestinian demonstrators and Israeli fans erupted ahead of the match, with five men handed prison sentences and more than 60 people detained in the riots.
Bia hails Namuaniwaqa Sea Eagles’ historic win – FBC News
[Photo Credit: Ministry of Youth and Sports.] Assistant Minister for Youth and Sports Aliki Bia visited Matawailevu Village to join celebrations following the Namuaniwaqa Sea Eagles’ historic triumph in the 2025 Vodafone Cup Premier Men’s Grandfinal. The Sea Eagles defeated Vusu Raiders 32-30. It was a proud moment for the community as the Sea Eagles lifted the championship trophy for the first time, capping off a remarkable season that showcased both discipline and determination. Article continues after advertisement Bia congratulated the players, coaches and supporters, commending their commitment and teamwork that led to their breakthrough victory. He also emphasized the broader role of sport in shaping the lives of young Fijians, stressing that rugby league and other sporting pathways can serve as powerful tools for empowerment and positive change. “Sports give our young people the chance to grow, learn discipline, and create a better future for themselves and their families.” During his visit, the Assistant Minister also highlighted several youth initiatives offered by the Ministry, including training programs and youth centers that support those who may not have completed formal education. He encouraged young people to register their youth clubs through the Ministry of Youth and Sports to gain access to resources and further development opportunities. The visit not only celebrated the Sea Eagles’ milestone victory but also reinforced the Ministry’s ongoing commitment to youth development through sports across Fiji. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.