PHILADELPHIA, Pennsylvania - In the shadow of Subaru Park, on a warm summer afternoon in Philadelphia, two clubs from opposite sides of the world came together not just for a match, but for a moment of footballing fellowship.
7 June 2025
Auckland City FC, Oceania champions, took to the field against Philadelphia Union 2 in a behind-closed-doors international friendly, a key fixture in City’s build-up to the FIFA Club World Cup.
The match offered both sides a chance to test their depth, but what unfolded was more than just a contest between players. It was a meeting of values, people, and purpose.
Before kick-off, a ceremonial exchange took place on the touchline.
Philadelphia Union’s Director of Academy and Professional Development, Jon Scheer, welcomed the visitors on behalf of the host club.
Scheer said: “It was an absolute pleasure to host Auckland City FC at Subaru Park. This was a valuable opportunity for our group to compete against an international side with a rich footballing culture and a strong sense of identity.
“We’re grateful for the connection that’s been formed and truly admire the professionalism and humility shown by Auckland City FC’s players and staff. We wish them the best of luck in the Club World Cup.”
Representing Auckland City FC were Club President Ivan Vuksich and General Manager Gordon Watson, who presented a FIFA Club World Cup pennant featuring all three matches with Bayern Munich, Benfica and Boca Juniors and a manaia, a traditional Māori symbol of guardianship and unity.
Vuksich said: “Philadelphia Union have been amazing hosts for us and went out of their way to make us feel welcome at Subaru Park.
“As the only amateur club in the FIFA Club World Cup it is a privilege and honour to play a game in Union’s wonderful home stadium.
“It is ideal preparation for what is to come for us and we hope Philadelphia Union 2 and their many talented young players gained some value from the exercise.”
The gesture acknowledged not only the occasion, but the deep cultural foundations of Auckland City FC and their commitment to honouring connections across the global football community. Warm handshakes, shared smiles, and a few quiet words of mutual respect marked the moment.
Watson said: “Presenting Philadelphia Union with a unique football and cultural gift was fitting given the very professional way they conducted themselves in all aspects of arranging this fixture.
“The manaia symbolises the relationship and the esteem in which we regard our hosts and we wish them all the very best for their endeavours in Major League Soccer and the future.”
On the pitch, Auckland City FC would go on to win 2–0, with second-half goals from Ryan De Vries and Regont Murati, but it was the spirit of the exchange that lingered. In the City of Brotherly Love, true to its name, football built another bridge — one carved in wood, carried in hand, and remembered long after the final whistle.
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