After a 583-day wait, Auckland FC is finally making its A-League debut. The city’s new professional football team will face Brisbane Roar in a highly anticipated match at Go Media Stadium, Mt Smart. With the stadium nearly sold out, this historic game marks a new chapter for football in Tāmaki Makaurau, and the excitement is palpable.
A New Dawn for Auckland Football
This isn’t Auckland’s first time at the rodeo. The city has seen two previous clubs, the Kingz and the New Zealand Knights, come and go. Both teams folded, leaving a 17-year gap in professional football.
But this time feels different. Auckland FC is backed by a powerhouse ownership group led by American businessman Bill Foley, who also has stakes in Premier League club Bournemouth. This strong financial backing provides a level of stability that was missing in previous ventures.
The ownership team also includes a star-studded lineup of New Zealand sporting legends. Former footballers Noah Hickey, Tim Brown, and Winston Reid are involved, alongside All Black Ali Williams and even NBA star Steven Adams. This blend of international business acumen and local passion sets a solid foundation for long-term success.
Star Power Lights up the Roster
Auckland FC has made it clear they are here to compete, assembling an impressive roster with international experience. The team is not just filling numbers; it has signed players with serious pedigree to make an immediate impact in the A-League.
Leading the charge is captain Hiroki Sakai, a right-sided defender with 74 caps for Japan. His time in top European leagues gives the team invaluable experience and leadership on the pitch. He is joined by Australian midfielder Jake Brimmer, a former Johnny Warren Medal winner known for his control and goal-scoring ability from the midfield.
The responsibility for finding the back of the net will largely fall on Uruguayan striker Guillermo May. Described as a technical and creative player, May has set his sights on winning the A-League’s golden boot.
| Player Name | Position | Key Highlight |
|---|---|---|
| Hiroki Sakai | Defender | 74 caps for Japan and experience in Bundesliga & Ligue 1 |
| Jake Brimmer | Midfielder | Won the Johnny Warren Medal in 2021-22 |
| Guillermo May | Striker | A technical and creative forward aiming for the golden boot |
The Best of Kiwi Talent on Display
While the international signings have grabbed headlines, the club has also invested heavily in top local talent. This focus on New Zealand players is crucial for building a strong connection with the local community and fostering homegrown stars.
Goalkeeper Alex Paulsen is a major signing, joining on loan from Bournemouth. Paulsen’s breakout season with the Wellington Phoenix last year made him one of the most exciting prospects in New Zealand football.
The club has also given a first professional contract to Cam Howieson, a player widely regarded as one of the best in the domestic scene for years. He will be looking to prove himself at the A-League level. In defense, the team secured All Whites defender Nando Pijnaker, a solid player with European experience who was sought after by several other clubs.
- Alex Paulsen: A rising star goalkeeper on loan from a Premier League club.
- Cam Howieson: A top domestic player finally getting his professional opportunity.
- Nando Pijnaker: An established All Whites defender with valuable experience.
What to Expect from the Opposition
Auckland FC’s first challenge comes in the form of a revamped Brisbane Roar. The Roar finished ninth last season but have made significant changes, bringing in 11 new players under coach Ruben Zadkovich.
They are a team in transition, but their new signings make them an unknown quantity and a potential threat. One player to watch is 21-year-old Indonesian forward Rafael Struick, who has the potential to be a breakout star this season.
Adding another layer of intrigue to the match is Auckland’s Joey Champness. Champness previously played for Brisbane Roar, and you can expect him to play with extra fire against his former club. This personal battle will be a fascinating subplot in what is already a historic occasion.
