For the two local sides competing, Ba and Nadi, the clash has prompted Ba to seek special permission from the Fiji FA allowing them to miss part of the season in order to focus on participating in the Champions League.
Fiji FA President Rajesh Patel says the matter was discussed during the Fiji FA board and council meeting in Nadi on Sunday, with both parties approving the proposal.
He now expects Nadi to make a similar request.
“In principle we have granted Nadi time off for a certain period also,” Patel says.
“But they need to get the request across to us.”
To complete the National League schedule Ba and Nadi will be required to play mid-week fixtures following the conclusion of the Champions League.
Nadi played in the inaugural edition of the competition in 1999 when it was known as the Oceania Club Championship. They lost 5-1 to South Melbourne in the final at Prince Charles Park.
Ba reached the final of the 2007 Oceania Championship League losing to Waitakere United on the away goals rule.
The Men in Black have since featured in the 2008, ‘09, ‘12 and ’13 editions of the OFC Champions League.
ENDS