AUCKLAND, New Zealand - Auckland City FC head south this weekend for a pivotal National League clash against Christchurch United, with both sides locked on 7 points and eager to return to the winners’ circle.
31 October 2025
City’s two-match winning run was halted by a 1-1 draw against Auckland Reserves last round, while Christchurch United, who opened the season with back-to-back victories, have stumbled in recent weeks, recording two losses and a draw in their last three outings. The Navy Blues sit 5th with a game in hand, while United hold 4th after five matches.
Head-to-Head History
The last two meetings between Auckland City FC and Christchurch United have both ended in dramatic 3-2 scorelines, one win apiece.
In November 2022, City edged a thrilling contest in Christchurch, coming away with a 3-2 victory. A year later, in November 2023, Christchurch United returned the favour at Kiwitea Street, overturning a late deficit to snatch a 3-2 win. That match saw Auckland City reduced to ten men after a red card to Christian Gray, with United scoring twice in the final minutes to complete the comeback.
Captain’s Call: Mario Ilich Previews the Battle
Skipper Mario Ilich reflected on last weekend’s draw and the challenge ahead: 💬 “Christchurch away is always tough, travel, turf, and a team that’s picked up some big results. We’ve trained well this week and we’re ready to put in a strong performance.”
He also stressed the importance of building momentum: 💬 “The league is tight. Every point matters. We’ve had a good win against Olympic recently, and now it’s about stringing together results and climbing the table.”
Yoo’s Homecoming
Saturday’s match will be a special occasion for Navy Blues striker David Yoo, who returns to face his former club. Yoo was a standout performer for Christchurch United and was named 2024 Southern League Player of the Season. His return adds an emotional edge to an already high-stakes fixture.
📺 Can’t Make the Trip?
For fans unable to travel to Christchurch, Auckland City FC will host a 𝗟𝗜𝗩𝗘𝗦𝗧𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗠 𝗔𝗧 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗞𝗜𝗪𝗜𝗧𝗘𝗔 𝗖𝗟𝗨𝗕𝗥𝗢𝗢𝗠𝗦.
Doors open at 1:00 PM, half an hour before kick-off. Everyone is welcome. Come down, wear your colours, and watch the match with us on FIFA+
Ends
Match Details
Dettol National League R6
Saturday, 1 November
United Sports Centre, Christchurch
Christchurch United vs Auckland City FC
Kick-off: 1:30pm
AC SQUAD: 1. Conor TRACEY (GK) 2. Mario ILICH (C) 3. Adam MITCHELL 4. Christian GRAY 5. Nikko BOXALL, 6. Orlando THORPE, 7. Myer BEVAN 8. Gerard GARRIGA 9. Angus KILKOLLY 10. Dylan MANICKUM 11. Ryan DE VRIES 12. Regont MURATI 13. Nathan LOBO 14. Jordan VALE, 15. Jeremy FOO, 16. Joe LEE 17. Jerson LAGOS 18. Seb CIGANDA (GK) 19. Dylan CONNOLLY, 20. Matt ELLIS 21. Adam BELL 22. Tong ZHOU 23. Riley DALZIELL, 24. Nathan GARROW (GK) 25. Michael DEN HEIJER, 26. David YOO, 27. Haris ZEB, 28 Paris DOMFEH
HEAD COACH : Paul POSA
ASSISTANT COACH: Ivan VICELICH
ASSISTANT COACH: Adria CASALS
GOALKEEPER COACH: Jonas HOFFMANN
PHYSIO: Matt PAYNE
TEAM MANAGER: Keith COTON
