Auckland Utd late loss at Champions Cup
- Dave Worsley
- Oct 9
- 2 min read
Updated: Oct 10
Auckland United have gone close, but not close enough in the FIFA Women's Champions Cup game in China.
The Ben Bate coached side delivered a strong performance across 90 minutes but were undone late in the match in difficult conditions.
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Travelling to China for the first-ever FIFA Women’s Champions Cup, Auckland United knew they could challenge their opponents Wuhan Jiangda WFC despite being outsiders going into the match.
The Oceania champions travelled to Wuhan to face Wuhan Jiangda WFC, the reigning champions of Asia, in their own stadium in front of 30,000 spectators.
On top of adjusting to the heat and humidity, United were up against a fully professional side packed with international experience at Wuhan Sports Centre Stadium.
Despite the differences, the New Zealanders matched the Chinese champions and even created several chances to take the lead in the first half.
The midfield and backline worked tirelessly, while goalkeeper Hannah Mitchell made a couple of key saves to keep the game level. Dani Canham and Ava Collins both came close to scoring on the counter, forcing stops from the Wuhan keeper.
Alexis Cook also had a strong performance on the right flank, driving several attacking moves.
In the second half, Auckland began to feel the heat and fatigue as the hosts pushed higher up the pitch. Still, the defensive unit, led by Talisha Green, stood firm, winning key battles and keeping the scoreline goalless. Mitchell continued to perform confidently whenever called upon.
Looking likely for extra time, Wuhan found the breakthrough in the 88th minute. After defending a free kick, United’s backline stepped up, but a long ball over the top found Jiang Chenjing, who broke the offside trap and slotted home the winner.
“I’m so proud of the group and everything that we have achieved here, it’s been a long, long journey battling for women’s football in New Zealand and across the globe.
I’m so proud of our players, our team and also every club that is participating in this competition that are helping to grow women’s club football across the globe. To play in front of all these fans is something that I will hold in my memory forever.” said Auckland captain Talisha Green.
Auckland United’s dream ended but they proved they can compete against a bigger and better resourced side away against the odds.
