Auckland City FC vs Ifira Black Bird: Semi-Final Rematch Headlines OFC Champions League

HONIARA, SOLOMON ISLANDS —
Two years ago, it was a moment that left Ifira Black Bird FC on their knees and Auckland City FC breathing a massive sigh of relief.

On May 24, 2023, at the VFF Freshwater Stadium in Port Vila, Ifira Black Bird were seconds away from a historic upset over the ten-time champions in the OFC Champions League semi-final. But in the fifth minute of stoppage time, a costly goalkeeping lapse gifted Ryan De Vries the chance to bundle home a dramatic equaliser, forcing extra time. Auckland City would go on to win in a penalty shootout, crushing Vanuatu’s hopes in heartbreaking fashion.

Fast forward to 2025, and fate has thrown these two sides together again—this time under the sweltering sun of Honiara, where the reigning champions are once again being hunted by a hungry Ifira Black Bird side dreaming of redemption.

Both clubs arrive at the semi-final stage unbeaten from their respective group campaigns, each showcasing discipline, creativity, and a hunger to go all the way.

For Ifira Black Bird head coach Robert Yelou, the focus heading into the rematch is clear.

“We still need more effort—especially in our finishing,” Yelou admitted. “We need to try and put something in place tactically to play against a team like Auckland City.”

Having played all three of their group matches on the National Stadium pitch, Ifira Black Bird may enjoy a slight familiarity advantage. However, Yelou acknowledged that the top-tier playing surface would likely benefit their technically adept opponents as well.

Second Semi-Final: Hekari United vs AS Tiga Sport

While all eyes may be on Auckland’s rematch with Ifira, the second semi-final promises a fascinating battle between Hekari United FC of Papua New Guinea and AS Tiga Sport from New Caledonia.

Hekari—Champions League winners in 2010—have long carried the weight of expectation but have underwhelmed in recent years. This tournament, however, they have looked resurgent, scoring a tournament-high 13 goals and conceding just once during the group phase.

Their head coach, former international Jerry Allen, believes his squad is peaking at the right time.

“We’ve come a long way,” said Allen. “The last time we were in the semi-finals was 2012. Now we’re back, but we’re not done. We have a mission, and we know what it is.”

Allen’s philosophy has been straightforward: attack wins games.

“If you don’t score, you can’t win. Even if you play great football, no goals means no results. But if you play ugly and score—you win. That’s what we’re focused on: scoring goals.”

Their opponents, AS Tiga Sport, opened their campaign with a strong victory over Fiji’s Rewa FC but struggled in front of goal during their next two matches. The New Caledonian side will need to be more clinical if they hope to reach the final.

With revenge, redemption, and history all on the line, both OFC Champions League semi-finals promise high drama and elite competition.

📺 Both matches are available LIVE and FREE on FIFA+