HONIARA, Solomon Islands - Auckland City FC is gearing up for a challenging encounter in Honiara this Wednesday, as they take on New Caledonia’s AS Tiga Sport in the second match of their OFC Champions League campaign at Lawson Tama Stadium.
1 April 2025
The defending champions approach this clash with confidence following their gritty 1-0 victory over Tahiti’s AS Pirae, a match that showcased discipline and determination under the intense Honiara sun. Goalkeeper Nathan Garrow’s penalty save proved decisive, reflecting the unwavering focus and resilience that Auckland City FC has built its reputation on.
Midfielder Dylan Manickum shared insights into the team’s readiness, saying, “It was a very tactical game, and the heat was tough, but everyone is feeling good. We’ve been able to conserve energy, which is key for the next couple of matches. We’re happy with how we’ve adapted to the conditions, and the new players like Jerson and David have settled in well, giving us a solid platform to win.”
With the FIFA Club World Cup on the horizon, Auckland City FC remains focused on maintaining their momentum while adapting to the unique challenges of competing in the Pacific Islands. Manickum emphasised the importance of staying sharp, saying, “Another win would be massive—it’s one foot in the semi-finals and sends a strong statement to the rest of the competition.”
Their opponents, AS Tiga Sport, are riding high after an exhilarating 4-2 win against Fiji’s Rewa FC. Known for their explosive offense and high-energy gameplay, the New Caledonian side presents a formidable challenge. Gerard Garriga acknowledged their threat, noting, “AS Tiga beat Rewa, one of the best teams in the competition. They play with intensity and have quality players who press relentlessly. It’s going to be a tough battle, but we’re prepared to match their energy and focus on controlling the game.”
Preparation has been key for Auckland City FC, as Garriga highlighted the team’s readiness: “Arriving a day earlier than usual has helped us adapt to the heat and humidity. The new players are blending in well, and the atmosphere in the camp is fantastic. The conditions are tough, but we’re determined and enjoying the challenge.”
With both teams vying for the top spot in Group A, Wednesday’s showdown promises to be a captivating clash of resilience, ambition, and rivalry under the Honiara sun. Fans can expect a gripping display of Oceania football as Auckland City FC looks to strengthen their hold on the group and edge closer to semi-final qualification.
MATCH DETAILS
OFC Champions League 2025 - Group A
Wednesday, 2 April Auckland City FC vs AS Tiga Sport (NCL)
Lawson Tama Stadium, Honiara
Kick-off: 3:00pm (Local time) 5pm (NZT)
AC 2025 OCL SQUAD: 1. Conor TRACEY (GK) 3. Adam MITCHELL (C) 4. Christian GRAY, 5. Nikko BOXALL 7. Myer BEVAN 8. Gerard GARRIGA 10. Dylan MANICKUM 11. Ryan DE VRIES 13. Nathan LOBO 14. Jordan VALE, 15. Jackson MANUEL, 16. Joe LEE 17. Jerson LAGOS 18. Areya PRASAD (GK) 19. Dylan CONNOLY, 20. Matt ELLIS 22. Tong ZHOU 24. Nathan GARROW (GK) 25. Michael DEN HEIJER 26. David YOO, 27. Haris ZEB, 28. Otto INGHAM 30. Adam BELL
Head Coach: Paul Posa
Assistant Coach: Ivan Vicelich
Assistant Coach: Adria Casals
GK Coach: Jonas Hoffmann
Physiotherapist: Matt Payne
Physiotherapist: Zara Ellis
Team Manager: Keith Coton
