Goalkeeping Innovation Unites Underdog Auckland City FC and Bayern Munich Ahead of Club World Cup Clash

CINCINNATI — As Auckland City FC readies for one of the most daunting challenges in club history against Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich at the FIFA Club World Cup, an unexpected thread of connection ties the two clubs together – a groundbreaking goalkeeping software tool.

While on the pitch the Navy Blues will look to defy the odds against one of Europe’s most decorated sides, off the pitch, both clubs are beneficiaries of a visionary project pioneered by Bayern’s goalkeeping coach Michael Rechner.

The software, designed to streamline and elevate goalkeeper training, is quietly transforming the Oceania region. Through a strategic partnership between Rechner, the OFC (Oceania Football Confederation), and regional coaches, the platform is now embedded in New Zealand, Solomon Islands, and New Caledonia, and is steadily expanding its reach.

Technology Meets Tradition

James Bannatyne, OFC Goalkeeping Consultant and a former New Zealand international, has been a strong proponent of the tool. “It basically does everything we need to track, support, and develop goalkeepers in line with OFC coaching frameworks,” Bannatyne said. “It allows us to monitor performance, identify areas for improvement, and access world-class coaching content from the best in the business.”

The system offers a holistic approach:

• Custom Training Plans aligned with individual goalkeeper profiles
• Performance Data Collection for long-term tracking
• Video Analysis Features to refine game-day performance
• A Global Resource Library of goalkeeper coaching methodologies
• A Global Network connecting coaches and staff across continents

Making Waves in Oceania

Auckland City FC’s goalkeeping coach Jonas Hoffman is one of the many professionals in the Pacific region utilizing the software. As his team gears up to face Bayern Munich, Hoffman is particularly eager for a different kind of meeting.

“It’s almost surreal,” Hoffman said. “I’ve studied Michael’s work for years through the software. Now, we’re not only playing Bayern, but I get to meet the person who helped shape how I coach.”

Rechner, speaking from Bayern Munich’s training base in the United States, echoed the sentiment. “I’m really happy to meet my colleagues from Auckland City. Our software partnership with OFC is built on development and passion. It’s great for coaches with tools for training, matches, analysis, webinars – so have fun with it.”

A Growing Legacy

The roots of this transcontinental relationship date back to 2017, when Bannatyne collaborated with Fabian Otte during an OFC goalkeeper education initiative. Otte later joined Rechner at Hoffenheim, and most recently celebrated an English Premier League title with Liverpool as their goalkeeping coach. That network is now bearing fruit throughout Oceania.

Central Coast FC and Solomon Islands national team keeper Philip Mango is another success story. “It’s a fantastic tool for me. We use it to track data, review games, and improve training at every level – from youth to national team,” Mango said.

Impact Beyond Auckland

The initiative isn’t just about elite football. It’s fostering growth at the grassroots level, uplifting entire communities.

“We’ve hosted coaches and interns from various Pacific island nations,” Hoffman shared. “They come to Auckland City to learn, then take that knowledge back to their communities. The software helps raise the level for everyone.”

On Monday, the scoreboard may reflect the disparity between Auckland City FC and Bayern Munich. But behind the scenes, both clubs are on the same team – one that is committed to elevating the art and science of goalkeeping across borders and beyond expectations.