Ali Kicks In Fiji’s Fifth FANCA Title Win
Goal scoring hero Alfraz Ali handed Fiji its fifth FANCA World Cup title on Sunday.
The Lautoka district rep scored the lone goal in their 1-0 victory over 10- man New Zealand side in the Digicel/Rams Cleaning Services FANCA World Cup 2022 final at the full-packed Prince Charles Park in Nadi.
His goal came in the extra spell after he capitalised a free kick from captain Zibraz Sahib.
Ali saw the NZ goalkeeper in front of his line so he just chipped in the ball over the goalie.
The Customs officer said their hard work paid off during the restless week.
“It was very good; this game ended with just one goal. I’m feeling proud that I scored the goal,” he said.
“Hard work from the boys paid off. They did all the hard work. Everybody was committed to the game. They played their 120 per cent supporting each other and officials too.”
Towards the end of the final, Police officers intervened to calm the disgruntled fans at the stand.
It started at the 80th minute when New Zealand skipper James Hoyt brought Fijian skipper Zibraz Shahib down near the touch line.
Players from both sides were involved in the shoving incident, referee Deepak Raj flashed the red card to Hoyt.
Two officials on the bench, NZ Assistant coach Arfat Bhamji and Strength & Conditioning coach Josef Fleming were also flashed red cards for unprofessional conduct on Raj.
As tension built up on the side-line, fans in the stands became restless, the Police presence saved the day.
Both teams remained scoreless at full time and the match proceeded to extra time.
This was Fiji’s fifth title win since the inaugural victory in 1997, 1999, 2004, and 2012.
Feedback: waisean@fijisun.com.fj
