Auckland City FC secured a spot in the final of the OFC Men’s Champions League 2025 by defeating Ifira Black Bird FC 2-0 in a commanding performance in Honiara. The Navy Blues are now on the hunt for their 13th title and will face either Hekari United FC from Papua New Guinea or New Caledonia’s AS Tiga Sport in the final match.
The victory was well-deserved for Auckland City, who dominated the game, particularly in the first half. Haris Zeb opened the scoring in the 25th minute, marking his third consecutive goal in the tournament. As the match progressed, Myer Bevan put the game beyond reach with a close-range finish from a Matt Ellis cross just before the final whistle. Although Ifira Black Bird attempted to rally back, even coming close to scoring with a header in the second half, Auckland’s defense and goalkeeper Connor Tracey’s excellent save from a late corner ensured there would be no late surprises.
Coach Paul Posa expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance, stating, “It was a tough game, but nobody could say we didn’t deserve it. We created lots of chances.” Auckland City maintained possession and controlled the game throughout, showcasing their strength and resilience.
This win builds on Auckland City’s strong legacy in Pacific football and heightens hopes among fans as they anticipate the upcoming final. The club’s ability to create numerous scoring opportunities while also maintaining a solid defense paints a promising picture for their quest for another championship title.
Notably, this performance echoes other recent matches where Auckland City has shown competitive spirit and talent, such as their previous decisive victories against AS Tiga Sport and AS Pirae. As they look forward to the championship game, the team remains a formidable force in the region, and their ongoing success continues to inspire fans and young players alike.
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