Navy Blues keen to show further improvement in final group game

posted in: News, OFC Champions League |

Auckland City aim to raise their level of performance again as they finish their pool games on Saturday at the OFC Champions League in Vanuatu.

Having won their opening two matches, the Navy Blues need a draw or better against Samoa’s Lupe Ole Soaga to ensure they top their group.

The game kicks off at 1pm on Saturday (NZT) and will be live-streamed by OFC.

UPDATE: Game called off

Shortly before kick-off, OFC announced the game would not take place due to injuries in the Lupe Ole Soaga squad.

If City finish top of Pool A, they’ll meet the runners-up in Pool B in the midweek semi-final in Port Vila.

After tomorrow’s final games in Pool B, any of the four sides could wind up in second place to face the Navy Blues.

Auckland City coach Albert Riera told his club’s website he wanted his side to finish their group strongly.

“To us, it’s all about improving and improving. I think it’s one of the strengths of this team; they always know, no matter who you are playing, you always have to give your best, and we will have to do that again.”

Lupe Ole Soaga coach Vaalii Faalogo said: “We’ve always looked up to Auckland City and we know they are going to be a very difficult opponent. We go back to the drawing board and hopefully, we can put some of our learnings into practice in the game against Auckland City.”

Main photo: Auckland City’s Liam Gilliam receives treatment from physio Matt Payne during his side’s midweek win against Suva.Photo: Shane Wenzlick / Phototek.