Fiji Football Association Mourns For Legends

Former national and Ba rep Mitieli Turaganikeli, at the age of 77, died of a short illness at the Ba hospital.

Turaganikeli was remembered for being a great leader, entertaining footballer, and being loyal to his district as well as the nation.

He represented the national team on a number of occasions.

He was also part of the Ba team that won the Inter District Championship (IDC) title for six years in a row (1975-1980).

The late Saweri, Ba idol was awarded a legends medal by Fiji FA during the Vodafone Fiji FACT opening ceremony in Lautoka last year. The ‘Fiji FA Legends Programme’ was initiated by the Fiji FA president Rajesh Patel taking the commitment of honouring our former players who have made the country proud.

Patel acknowledged the supreme contribution by both Turaganikeli and Tui in the football arena.

He said they have lost two true sons of Fiji who had football at heart.

“We are really saddened to learn the passing away of two great footballers of our nation,” he said.

“Both are remembered for their great leadership, being loyal to their districts, and they have always been great players to watch whenever they took field.

“I convey my heartfelt sympathy and deepest condolence to the grieving family and I pray to the Almighty that their soul rests in peace.”

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