LAUTOKA, Fiji - Auckland City FC Head Coach Rudy Mozr fronted the official OFC Champions League press conference in Lautoka today, sharing his thoughts ahead of the Navy Blues’ opening Group clash on Monday against Solomon Islands champions Central Coast FC.
8 August 2026
Mozr said the squad was excited to be in Fiji and looking forward to the challenge. He noted the positive spirit within the team and emphasised that everyone was healthy and ready to play, even though some players were unable to travel due to work commitments.
Reflecting on the domestic season, Mozr acknowledged the team’s tough start but highlighted the improvement in results as the campaign progressed. He believes the side has reached the right space at the right time, with the Champions League now underway.
The head coach stressed the difficulty of the group stage, pointing out that every team in the competition is a champion for a reason. He underlined the importance of discipline, intensity and respect for all opponents, while expressing confidence that his players would back themselves to succeed.
Mozr also spoke about the wider experience of competing in the OFC Champions League for the first time as head coach. He said he was looking forward to testing the team against different styles of football, meeting other coaches and enjoying the opportunity to spend time in Fiji.
He added that he hoped Auckland City’s performances would not only bring success but also win the support of the local community.
The Navy Blues begin their title defence on Monday 10 August at 3:00pm NZT at Churchill Park, Lautoka. The match will be streamed live at the Kiwitea Street clubrooms, with doors opening at 2:30pm.
Match Schedule — Fiji 2026
Ends
OCL SQUAD: 1. Cam BROWN (GK) 2. Mario ILICH (C) 4. Christian GRAY 5. Nathan ROSTRON 6. Nikko BOXALL 7. Michal DOUDERA 8. Gerard GARRIGA 10. Dylan MANICKUM 11. Ryan DE VRIES 13. Nathan LOBO 14. Shan ANAND 15. Jeremy FOO 17. Ryan WATSON 19. Rhys DAVIES 18. Ari PRASAD (GK) 20. Pavel OSMANCIK 21. Bono KACUROV 23. Alfie ROGERS 24. Matt FOORD (GK) 25. Mike Den HEIJER, 26. Matt ELLIS 27. Tom GOLDING 30 Ari PRASAD
HEAD COACH: Rudy MOZR
ASSISTANT COACH: Ivan VICELICH
ASSISTANT COACH: Alan SHAKER
GOALKEEPER COACH: Adam BANNISTER
TRAINER: Karlo PAVIC
PHYSIO: Matt PAYNE
PHYSIO: Zara ELLIS
TEAM MANAGER: Keith COTON
