The knockout stage of the Extra Battle of the Giants 2025 kicks off with a much-anticipated clash between two well-acquainted sides—Extra Supermarket Labasa FC and River Tubing Fiji/Classic Tours & Rentals Navua FC. The semifinal, set for Subrail Park, promises fireworks as both teams chase a coveted spot in the final.

This matchup arrives just weeks after their tense meeting in the Extra Fiji Premier League, where Labasa secured a 1-0 victory courtesy of a dramatic late winner. That result not only handed the Babasiga Lions a valuable psychological advantage but also previewed what could be another nail-biting showdown.

Labasa enter the semifinal in strong form, one of just three sides—alongside Rewa and Lautoka—who remain unbeaten in the tournament. Under the guidance of coach Alvin Chand, who led the team to a title in his debut campaign at the Fiji FACT, the Lions are aiming for back-to-back final appearances. However, Chand is all too aware that semifinals can be unforgiving—Labasa were eliminated at this same stage on home soil last year by Lautoka and will be determined not to let history repeat itself.

Labasa’s recent win over Navua demonstrated their ability to stay composed under pressure, breaking down a well-organised side in the dying stages. With home support behind them and momentum on their side, they will look to take control early and dictate the game’s rhythm.

On the other side, Navua’s journey to the semifinal has been marked by resilience and character. After a tough 2-0 loss to Rewa in their opening group match, Babs Khan’s men bounced back in style with a commanding 3-0 win over Suva, followed by a gritty 1-1 draw with Nadi that secured their passage to the knockout stage.

Despite narrowly losing to Labasa in their most recent encounter, Navua proved they are no pushovers. They frustrated the Lions for much of the game and were just minutes away from holding them to a draw. Now, with that performance fresh in mind, Navua will believe they have the tools to upset the odds.

Navua’s strength lies in their unity, relentless work rate, and fitness. If they can settle into their rhythm and absorb pressure effectively, they could make life very difficult for the home side. Expect them to sit deep, stay compact, and strike on the counterattack—using pace and direct play to challenge Labasa’s backline.

Labasa, meanwhile, will look to assert dominance early and avoid letting the game drift into a nervy finish. Their midfield control and home advantage could prove decisive, but they must remain wary of lapses in concentration that Navua will look to exploit.

Much will depend on the battle in midfield—whichever team can control the tempo and territory may shape the outcome.

With a spot in the final on the line, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Labasa have everything to lose as favorites, while Navua play with the freedom of underdogs and the hunger to make history.

Expect a closely fought contest, where patience, discipline, and big moments will decide the winner. A draw after 90 minutes wouldn’t be surprising—and extra time may be needed to separate these two familiar foes.

Kick-off: 2:00 PM at Subrail Park.
Will Labasa march into another final, or will Navua deliver the upset of the tournament?