HONIARA, Solomon Islands – The countdown begins as Auckland City FC, Oceania’s defending champions, prepare to take on Papua New Guinea’s Hekari United FC in the OFC Champions League final this Saturday at Honiara’s National Stadium.
10 April 2025
The stakes couldn’t be higher, with the Navy Blues chasing an unprecedented 13th continental title, while Hekari United eye their second triumph, having last lifted the trophy in 2010. Both teams bring formidable histories and strong performances to the clash, setting the stage for an unforgettable showdown.
Auckland City’s journey to the final included a 1-0 grind against Tahiti's A Pirae, which was followed by a commanding 2-0 victory over AS Tiga Sport from New Caledonia and a hard-fought 1-1 draw with Rewa FC from Fiji, securing their top spot in Group A. The Navy Blues then delivered a semi-final masterclass, dispatching Ifira Black Bird FC from Vanuatu with a 2-0 win. Haris Zeb continued his scoring form, netting his third goal in as many games, while Myer Bevan’s late finish, set up by Matt Ellis, confirmed their place in the final.
Head coach Paul Posa hailed the team’s efforts, saying, “I’m very happy with the boys today. Incredible effort in tough conditions. We created so many chances that it could have been four. No one would have denied us that. We thoroughly deserved the win.” Reflecting on the upcoming final under cooler evening conditions, Posa added, “We’ve acclimatised, and we’re ready.”
For Hekari United, the return to the final after a 15-year absence has been a testament to their grit and determination. A narrow 1-0 semi-final victory over AS Tiga Sport, courtesy of their star forward Rex Naime, capped off a strong campaign. Naime’s hat-trick in their 9-0 demolition of Tupapa Maraerenga FC in the group stage has made him a player to watch, bolstered by confidence as he leads his side in the title decider. Jerry Allen’s men showcased flair in their other Group B matches, with a dominant 3-0 win over Central Coast United and a lively 1-1 draw with Ifira Black Bird FC.
The final will be played under the lights at the National Stadium, offering some relief from Honiara’s sweltering heat, which Auckland City endured in their midday semi-final kickoff at 32°C. “Playing under lights will be a relief for the boys,” Posa admitted. “We’ve got such a good team behind the scenes that have worked tirelessly to help us acclimatise and prepare. We’re in good shape, ready for the final.”
With depth in the Auckland City squad proving pivotal in their semi-final victory, Posa highlighted its impact, saying, “All the boys who came on in the second half made an immediate impact.”
As two Oceania heavyweights lock horns, fans are guaranteed an electrifying battle for continental glory in Honiara this Saturday night.
Ends
MATCH DETAILS
OFC Champions League 2025 - FINAL
Saturday, 12 April
Auckland City FC v Hekari United FC
National Stadium, Honiara
Kick-off: 6.00pm (Local time) 7.00pm (NZT)
AC 2025 OCL SQUAD: 1. Conor TRACEY (GK) 3. Adam MITCHELL (C) 4. Christian GRAY, 5. Nikko BOXALL 7. Myer BEVAN 8. Gerard GARRIGA 10. Dylan MANICKUM 11. Ryan DE VRIES 13. Nathan LOBO 14. Jordan VALE, 15. Jackson MANUEL, 16. Joe LEE 17. Jerson LAGOS 18. Areya PRASAD (GK) 19. Dylan CONNOLY, 20. Matt ELLIS 22. Tong ZHOU 24. Nathan GARROW (GK) 25. Michael DEN HEIJER 26. David YOO, 27. Haris ZEB, 28. Otto INGHAM 30. Adam BELL
Head Coach: Paul Posa
Assistant Coach: Ivan Vicelich
Assistant Coach: Adria Casals
GK Coach: Jonas Hoffmann
Physiotherapist: Matt Payne
Physiotherapist: Zara Ellis
Team Manager: Keith Coton
