Auckland FC Solidifies League Lead with Gritty 2-0 Win Over Brisbane

Pijnaker and Sakai Deliver as Auckland Stays Unbeaten in Ten Matches

Auckland FC continued their dominant Isuzu UTE A-League campaign with a hard-fought 2-0 victory over Brisbane, extending their lead to seven points at the top of the table. Goals in either half from Nando Pijnaker and Hiroki Sakai ensured the visitors left the scorching Brisbane heat with all three points, keeping their unbeaten streak intact.

Tactical Adjustments Pay Off

Head coach Steve Corica made several changes to his squad following Auckland’s 2-2 home draw against Adelaide. Four players were introduced to the starting lineup, including Max Mata and Verstraete, while Pijnaker returned from suspension to bolster the defense alongside Dan Hall. The reshuffled backline was a key factor in securing a clean sheet.

Brisbane started the match on the front foot, pushing forward aggressively, but Auckland’s defensive discipline kept them at bay. Despite being under pressure, the visitors struck just before halftime. Dan Hall launched a precise ball forward to Verstraete, who whipped in a dangerous cross from the right. Rising above his marker, Pijnaker powered home a header—his fourth goal of the season—giving Auckland the lead at a crucial moment.

Sakai Seals the Deal

Corica made a tactical switch at the break, bringing on Cam Howieson for Mata in a straight swap up front. The second half followed a similar pattern, with Brisbane enjoying more possession but failing to break through a resolute Auckland defense, marshaled superbly by goalkeeper Alex Paulsen.

Once again, against the run of play, Auckland doubled their lead. Howieson flicked the ball onto the dynamic Logan Rogerson, who surged into the box before executing a slick turn to evade his defender. With composure, he set up Hiroki Sakai, who emphatically buried the chance. A lengthy VAR check briefly dampened the celebrations, but once confirmed, Sakai erupted with joy, displaying the enthusiasm of a player still hungry for success.

Defensive Masterclass Keeps Auckland in Command

While the attacking moments were crucial, Auckland’s defensive resilience was just as vital. Paulsen delivered another standout performance between the posts, frustrating Brisbane’s forwards and ensuring Auckland kept their eighth clean sheet of the season.

This victory extends Auckland’s unbeaten streak to ten matches, pushing them ever closer to clinching the Premiers Plate with just five games remaining in the regular season.

What’s Next?

Auckland FC now returns home to Go Media Stadium for a highly anticipated clash against Western Sydney Wanderers on Saturday, April 5, at 5 PM. The Wanderers, currently fifth in the standings, have been in fine form with a seven-game unbeaten streak—but their last defeat came against Auckland back in January. Revenge will be on their minds, setting the stage for another thrilling contest.

🔹 Player of the Match: Alex Paulsen
🔹 Next Match: Auckland FC vs. Western Sydney Wanderers
📍 Venue: Go Media Stadium, Auckland
🎟️ Tickets Available Now