The second semifinal of the Extra Battle of the Giants 2025 promises to be a heavyweight showdown as Lincoln Rewa FC take on defending champions Paradise Seafood Supplies Lautoka FC in what many had expected to be the final itself.
Rewa enter the match as the tournament’s only team with a perfect record—three wins from three in the group stage. The Delta Tigers have impressed with their organisation, tactical discipline, and individual brilliance, and are tipped by many to reach a dream final against Labasa—a rematch of the 2025 BIC Fiji FACT final in Suva.
Boasting one of the most balanced squads in the competition, Rewa have quality across all departments. Their players are well-drilled, with a clear understanding of roles and match strategies. A unique advantage lies in player-coach Tevita Waranivalu, who orchestrates play on the pitch while Priyant Manu manages from the touchline.
The two sides last met a month ago in the Extra Fiji Premier League, where they played out a tense 0-0 draw in Nausori. Rewa dominated possession, but Lautoka held firm—thanks in large part to a standout performance from goalkeeper Senirusi Bokini, who will be vital again this weekend.
Lautoka began their BOG 2025 campaign with a 2-1 win, but have since struggled in front of goal, failing to score in their last two matches. To get past Rewa, they’ll need to rediscover their attacking sharpness and seize the few chances that come their way.
Still, the Blues are no strangers to knockout pressure. As defending BOG champions, they have the experience and mentality to disrupt even the most in-form teams. If any side can knock out both Rewa and Labasa under pressure, it’s Lautoka FC.
This semifinal could start cagey, with both sides cautiously feeling each other out, but is likely to open up in the second half.
Prediction: Rewa go in as slight favourites, but Lautoka’s tournament pedigree makes this one too close to call. Extra time is a real possibility.
