Auckland FC Rally from Two Goals Down to Draw Sydney FC

SYDNEY (April 13, 2025) — Auckland FC fought back from a two-goal deficit to secure a pulsating 2-2 draw against Sydney FC at Allianz Stadium, keeping their Premier’s Plate hopes alive and extending their unbeaten run to 13 matches in the 2024–25 A-League season.

The clash marked the return of Steve Corica to his old stomping grounds, Sydney FC, where he spent nearly two decades as player and manager. With Auckland eyeing top honors and Sydney pushing for finals security, the intensity was evident from the opening whistle.

Sydney struck first with a moment of brilliance from Jake Girdwood-Reich Segecic, who rifled home from 20 yards in the 12th minute. The young midfielder doubled his tally 20 minutes later, curling a left-footed strike beyond Auckland keeper Alex Paulsen to put the hosts 2-0 ahead.

Auckland responded swiftly. A powerful run and shot by Marlee François forced a save, and the rebound fell perfectly to Elijah Just Rogerson, who slotted home from close range to halve the deficit in the 35th minute.

“The boys didn’t panic,” said Auckland captain Hiroki Sakai. “We’ve built a mentality that we don’t give up no matter the scoreline.”

Auckland maintained the pressure in the second half. Head coach Steve Corica made key adjustments at halftime, bringing on Brimmer and Elliot for Rogerson and Howieson, the latter starting in place of the injured Max Mata.

Returning from injury, Neyder Moreno entered the fray in the 61st minute. Moments later, Auckland completed the comeback. A swift passing sequence between Sakai and Belgian midfielder Kristof Verstraete led to Ryan de Vries volleying home via a deflection to level the scores at 2-2.

Despite several late chances—including a goal-line clearance and a shot off the post—Auckland couldn’t find the winner. Nonetheless, their comeback performance reinforced their reputation as one of the A-League’s toughest teams to break down.

“We’ve drawn a few lately, but today felt different. Coming back from 2-0 down away from home shows the character in this team,” said Corica post-match.

Player of the Match: Hiroki Sakai — commanding at the back and a catalyst in the equalizer, celebrating his birthday with a standout performance.

Next Match: Saturday, April 19 — Auckland FC travel to face Melbourne Victory.

Match Summary
A-League Men – Round 22
Saturday, April 13, 2025
Allianz Stadium, Sydney

Final Score:
Sydney FC 2 (Segecic 12’, 32’)
Auckland FC 2 (Rogerson 35’, de Vries 67’)