Wellington Phoenix travel to Auckland on Saturday looking for their first win in the New Zealand derby. They arrive with the best start to a season in the club’s history.
A first for the Phoenix
The Phoenix have won their opening three A-League games. Football360 reports this is the first time they have begun a campaign with three straight wins. The result puts them top of the table.
1News reports that Wellington have scored seven goals and conceded one. Striker Corban Piper has scored in all three wins.
Football360 says the 24-year-old has also earned his first All Whites call-up. He played five positions in his first season at the club. Coach Chris Greenacre has since turned him into a centre-forward.
Auckland’s derby record
Auckland FC have won all six meetings between the clubs since they joined the league in 2024-25. Football360 says they have outscored Wellington 20-4 in those games. 1News notes that the Phoenix have not even managed a draw.
Auckland’s slow start
The defending champions have had a quieter start under new coach Pedro Moreira. 1News reports they are sixth with one win. They have averaged 37 per cent possession, which ranks 11th of the 12 teams.
Goalkeeper Michael Woud described it as an adjustment period under Moreira. He said Auckland had not lost at home this season. He also said the Phoenix would be seen as favourites on paper.
Woud told 1News: “You’d probably say they are, if you’re being honest.” He added that the underdog tag might suit his side.
Auckland also have an injury concern. Midfielder Jake Brimmer left Thursday’s training with a shoulder injury, according to 1News. He did not complete his media duties.
Outside view
Former Phoenix forward Kosta Barbarouses spoke to Football360. He said he did not expect the match to be straightforward, partly because Auckland striker Sam Cosgrove is coming back in.
Barbarouses also said he had not expected Wellington to be a top side this year. He credited a tighter defence and a good mood in the group. Football360 reports he said Wellington captain Alex Rufer had told him he was enjoying football again under Greenacre.
Match details
- The match is at Mt Smart in Auckland on Saturday, according to 1News.
- Kick-off is 3pm AEDT, Football360 says. It will be shown on Sky in New Zealand.
Sources: Football360 and 1News.
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