Musician and former Fiji football international Karuna Gopalan passed away in Lautoka this morning.
Gopalan sang the song 'Spaceship' in the 1990s, which is still played by radio stations in Fiji.
He had migrated to Auckland, New Zealand, and was visiting Fiji when he sadly passed away.
The Fiji Football Association says a respected footballer of his generation, Gopalan represented Lautoka, Ba, Rewa and Labasa during his district career and also had the honour of representing Fiji at national level.
Fiji FA President Rajesh Patel says Gopalan’s passing was a great loss to the football fraternity.
Patel says Karuna was part of a generation of players who contributed immensely towards building the foundation of Fiji football.
He says to have represented some of our major districts and the national team speaks volumes about his ability, dedication and passion for the game.
Patel, on behalf of the Fiji FA Board, staff and the entire Fiji football family, extended heartfelt condolences to Gopalan’s family, relatives and friends.