A-League
Italiano Responds to Criticism
A Tactical Exchange or Mind Games?
Wellington Phoenix head coach Giancarlo ‘Chiefy’ Italiano has addressed sharp criticism from Auckland FC manager Steve Corica following last week’s fiery New Zealand Derby, suggesting his remarks may have “touched a nerve.” Corica had labeled Italiano “disrespectful” for his pre-game comments that Auckland’s stellar run of form was “lucky” and their dominance was “there for the taking.”
The heated exchange followed Auckland’s 2-1 victory over Phoenix, marking their sixth consecutive win in the Isuzu UTE A-League. Corica’s reaction sparked widespread attention, prompting Italiano to clarify his stance on this week’s Total A-Leagues podcast.
Italiano Defends Pre-Game Remarks
Speaking with host Vince Rugari and former A-Leagues striker Daniel McBreen, Italiano stood by his comments.
“I don’t make it personal,” Italiano said. “I was surprised Corica reacted that way. It obviously got under his skin. My comments about Auckland’s recent schedule were taken out of context, or maybe not—I honestly don’t care.”
Italiano had highlighted Auckland’s favorable schedule, playing five of their six games at home, as an anomaly. “No team in the world has such an advantage,” he said, contrasting it with past scenarios where extended away runs crippled teams like Perth Glory.
“Whether it’s luck, good scheduling, or poor scheduling, playing so many games at home creates momentum. Until they face the challenges of regular travel and player management, their credibility around the league remains untested,” he added.
Mind Games or Honest Analysis?
Asked if his remarks were an attempt at mind games, Italiano dismissed the notion.
“These are professional athletes paid to perform at the highest level,” he said. “If they need motivation to play a derby, they’re in the wrong profession.”
However, Italiano acknowledged his statements might have been weaponized by Auckland as a rallying cry. “Perhaps it was smart on their part to use my words as motivation. Or maybe, I just touched a nerve,” he remarked.
Italiano emphasized that his focus remains on improving Phoenix and building resilience. “Last season, pundits wrote us off, and I didn’t use it as motivation but as a reality check for the players. They’re professionals; they decide how to respond.”
A Heated Rivalry Builds
With tensions high and the New Zealand Derby now a focal point of the A-League season, the rivalry between Wellington Phoenix and Auckland FC promises even more drama. Fans are already anticipating the next chapter in this growing saga.
