Nine-man Auckland beat Phoenix in fiery A-League derby

Auckland FC delivered one of the most courageous performances in their brief A-League Men history, defeating Wellington Phoenix 2-1 despite finishing the match with only nine players.

The game was filled with intensity and drama. Auckland took the lead just 28 seconds into the match when Sam Cosgrove scored the opener after connecting with a precise pass from Jesse Randall. Wellington quickly struck back in the ninth minute with a stunning long-range goal from Ifeanyi Eze, who intercepted a loose pass and fired it into the net.

Despite losing Daniel Hall to a red card in the 49th minute and Logan Rogerson in the 79th, Auckland’s defence held firm against relentless pressure from Wellington. Their resilience secured a remarkable victory, maintaining a perfect record in New Zealand derbies.

Now sitting atop the league table with three wins and one draw from four matches, Auckland have reason to celebrate but also worry over captain Jake Brimmer’s condition after he left the field with a suspected dislocated shoulder in the 75th minute.

“Auckland FC have produced one of the bravest victories in their short A-League Men history.”

Key Match Highlights

Sam Cosgrove scored twice, including a goal in the opening minute.
Ifeanyi Eze equalised for Wellington with a long-range strike.
Auckland played most of the second half with nine men after two red cards.
Captain Jake Brimmer suffered a possible dislocated shoulder.
Auckland remain unbeaten in New Zealand derbies this season.

Final Score

Auckland FC 2 – 1 Wellington Phoenix

Author’s summary: A relentless nine-man Auckland squad defied adversity to edge Wellington in a heated A-League clash, preserving their unbeaten local derby streak.

The Canberra Times — 2025-11-08