The A-League NZ derby between Wellington Phoenix and Auckland FC resumed in the capital, with Wellington under pressure against the league’s newest team, the Black Knights.
This season marks the second time Wellington Phoenix and Auckland FC face off in the A-League NZ derby. Previously, the Black Knights secured their first-ever victory over Wellington, breaking a streak of draws in their inaugural season.
Ifeanyi Eze scored for Wellington Phoenix as they drew 1-1 with Central Coast, continuing their unbeaten streak at the start of the season.
Referee Ben Abraham shows a red card to Auckland FC’s Logan Rogerson.
Photo: Masanori Udagawa/Photosport
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Meanwhile, Chris Wood remains sidelined due to a knee injury and will miss the upcoming international matches against Colombia and Ecuador.
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Author's summary: The intense NZ derby continues as Wellington Phoenix face challenges from Auckland FC’s Black Knights, with red cards shaping the competitive 2025/26 A-League season.