Navy Blues Set For Semi-Final Showdown

Words: ACFC Media

Monday 7 April 2025

HONIARA, Solomon Islands – Auckland City FC are gearing up for an electrifying semi-final clash with Vanuatu’s Ifira Black Bird FC on Wednesday at Honiara’s National Stadium.

With a spot in the OFC Champions League final on the line, the defending champions are looking to take one step closer to securing an unprecedented 13th Oceania title.

After topping Group A with victories over Tahiti’s AS Pirae and New Caledonia’s AS Tiga, followed by a 1-all draw against Fiji’s Rewa FC, the Navy Blues are entering the knockout phase full of resolve.

However, Ifira Black Bird, the runners-up from Group B, won't go down without a fight. The Vanuatu side reached the semi-finals after a determined group stage campaign, securing second place behind Papua New Guinea’s Hekari United FC with a win over Tupapa Maraerenga FC and hard-fought draws against local favourites Central Coast FC and PNG’s Hekari.

This isn't the first time these two sides have met at such a high-stakes moment. Fans will recall their dramatic semi-final showdown two years ago in Port Vila, where Auckland City triumphed 5-4 on penalties after a roller-coaster 2-all draw during regulation and extra time. In that memorable encounter, Ifira’s counter-attacking flair pushed the Navy Blues to their limit before they ultimately prevailed.

Speaking ahead of the semi-final, defender Christian Gray emphasised the need for adaptability: “The conditions here are tough, and so are the games. We’ve got to stick to our principles but also be ready to adapt to whatever challenges Ifira throws our way. We know they’re a good side, and we’re preparing for a tough battle.”

Midfielder Matt Ellis echoed Gray’s sentiments, highlighting the intensity of the knockout stage: “A lot of the boys still talk about that game against Ifira in Vanuatu – They say it was one of the toughest matches they've ever played. We’re expecting the same intensity this time around, but our squad depth gives us an edge. Every player has an important role, and those coming off the bench have been making a big impact throughout the tournament.”

With a midday kickoff time and the relentless Solomon Islands heat adding another layer of difficulty, both teams will need to dig deep. The semi-final presents a clash of contrasting styles: Auckland City’s possession-based game versus Ifira’s explosive counter-attacks.

Auckland City FC will need to rely rely on the leadership of their key, experienced players as well as the determination of their entire squad to overcome what promises to be a passionate and dangerous Ifira side. Memories of their last meeting and the lessons learned from past encounters will undoubtedly play a role in shaping their approach.

The stage is set for what promises to be another thrilling chapter in this developing rivalry. Kickoff is at 12:00 PM, with fans eagerly awaiting to see who will claim a place in Saturday’s title decider

Ends

MATCH DETAILS
OFC Champions League 2025 - SF
Wednesday, 9 April
Auckland City FC vs Ifira Black Bird FC
National Stadium, Honiara
Kick-off: 12:00pm (Local time) 1.00pm (NZT)

WATCH LIVE

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