Key man
Keryn Jordan
The former South African international made a successful return to the game after secretly battling cancer last year. When they found out, Auckland’s fans clubbed together to buy him a juicer to aid his recovery. His return went even better than expected, though, and the master poacher bagged eight goals in the 2008/09 OFC O-League across just four matches, including three in 21 minutes to finish off finalists Koloale FC.
Also look out for
Ivan Vicelich
Vicelich is a local lad and, at 33, a veteran of the New Zealand league. An eight-year stint in Dutch football preceded his current spell at Auckland City where the bustling defensive midfielder has enjoyed a renaissance in his career and extended his total of international caps to over 70 appearances. The midfielder is a vital cog in any defensive display.
James Pritchett
If Auckland city are going to get anywhere, they’re going to need a strong defence, which is where the sturdy Pritchett comes in. The son of former Kiwi manager Keith Pritchett, he previously represented Auckland at the last Fifa Club World Cup where City eventually lost to Al Ahly and Jeonbuk Hyundai, but he will need to be at his most resilient to prevent a repeat performance.
How they got here
Auckland City were the first team to confirm their passage through to the Fifa Club World Cup UAE ’09 after they cruised to victory against local rivals Koloale FC of the Soloman Islands’ with a 9-4 aggregate victory after holding a 7-2 lead going into the final match.
The history
Despite the fact that their league was only founded in 2004, it is remarkable that this is Auckland City’s second appearance in the Fifa Club World Cup, although they have yet to register a win. But, for a team of part-timers, their achievements are quite impressive and, in recent years, they have claimed two league titles and four championships with their all-action style.
The coach
Paul Posa
Posa took over as caretaker boss from previous manager Colin Tuaa midway through last season to achieve great success with the club and was eventually given a permanent British-style coach’s role after reported long-distance negotiations with an unknown Brazilian party were called off.
How they’ll fair
The main challenge for Auckland City will be to get their first win in the Fifa Club World Cup. Up against Al Ahli in the preliminary round, they might fancy their chances against a lesser-known team. Still, it will be a close call with little in terms of pedigree to separate the two sides, although they do at least have bags of experience.
Prediction
They’ll be stirring their tea with the wooden spoon.
