Auckland United FC have gone back-to-back in the OFC Women’s Champions League, lifting the trophy for a second straight year with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Hekari Women’s FC in the final. (A rematch of last year's final.)

United were once again unbeaten throughout the tournament. Playing in the challenging heat of Tahiti, the side delivered a composed and dominant campaign, conceding just two goals across five matches.

They will now compete in the inaugural FIFA Women’s Champions Cup next year in a playoff against the AFC champions, with the winner of that match visiting the CAF champions in round two. With two trophies on their side, they are also well-placed to be the Oceania representative at the inaugural FIFA Club World Cup to be played in 2028.

Their group stage saw three convincing results, an 11-0 win over AS Pirae, a 2-1 victory against Hekari, and another 11-0 scoreline over PanSa, which saw them top Group B. In the semi-finals, they continued their strong form with a 6-1 win over Henderson Eels FC, before meeting Hekari once again in a highly anticipated final. A 26th-minute goal from Dani Canham proved the difference in a tightly contested rematch, securing the title for the Auckland side.

Canham’s performance earned her Player of the Match honours, while three other Auckland United players were recognised with individual awards:

• Hannah Mitchell – Golden Glove (Best Goalkeeper)
• Zoe Benson – Golden Boot (Top Scorer)
• Saskia Vosper – Golden Ball (Player of the Tournament)

Congratulations to Auckland United, proudly representing our region and New Zealand on the international stage!

Article added: Monday 19 May 2025