Black Knights Reloaded: Moreno and Gillion Return for Auckland FC’s Crucial Sydney Showdown

Auckland FC have received a major boost ahead of their round 26 A-League Men showdown with Sydney FC, as Colombian maestro Neyder Moreno and crowd-favourite Liam Gillion return to the matchday squad. With the Premiers Plate still hanging in the balance and four crucial matches left, the timing couldn’t be better.

Moreno, who has been sidelined with a quadricep injury since mid-March, is expected to feature from the bench in Saturday’s must-win away fixture at Allianz Stadium (7PM kickoff NZT). Known for producing moments of pure magic, the 28-year-old has already stamped his mark this season with seven goals and two assists in just 18 appearances.

“He’s definitely an X-factor,” Auckland FC head coach Steve Corica told the Weekend Herald. “We’ll need players who can unlock games in the finals, and he’s one of those who can turn nothing into something.”

Despite battling to adjust to the breakneck pace and defensive grind of the A-League compared to his South American roots, Moreno has more than held his own. From a thunderous late volley in the rain to sink Newcastle in Round 6 to his dazzling hat-trick against Wellington Phoenix – albeit with one goal later reassigned – Moreno’s flair has made him a game-changer.

Gillion’s Comeback Adds Pace to the Wings

Alongside Moreno’s return, Liam Gillion is back in the frame following a hamstring injury sustained during a reserves match in early March. The 22-year-old lit up the early part of the campaign with his blistering speed and attacking intent, making him an instant fan favourite in Auckland’s debut A-League season.

“Liam never fell out of favour,” explained Auckland’s Director of Football Terry McFlynn. “It was just about managing the squad. The competition on the wings has been fierce, and Steve (Corica) rewards those who are training at a high level.”

Gillion started the club’s first 11 matches and played a crucial role in their explosive start. His raw pace consistently stretched defences, giving the Black Knights added bite on the flanks. Now recovered, the challenge will be building match fitness after a lengthy layoff. Still, his return adds another sharp weapon to Auckland’s attacking arsenal as they march toward the finish line.

Corica’s Homecoming – But All Eyes on the Prize

Saturday’s encounter also marks an emotional return for Steve Corica, who spent nearly two decades as both player and coach at Sydney FC. But the sentimentality has taken a back seat, as Corica remains laser-focused on the task ahead.

“There’s no room for nostalgia right now,” Corica said. “Every game is a final from here. We’re in a great position, but nothing is sealed yet. We need to take it week by week and finish strong.”

Auckland FC currently sit five points clear at the top of the table, but with four games remaining, the pressure is building. The message from the coach is clear: no complacency.

What This Means for Auckland FC

The returns of Moreno and Gillion provide fresh energy and unpredictability – just what the Black Knights need as they chase the club’s first-ever A-League Men Premiers Plate. With attacking depth now replenished, Auckland FC are primed for a critical final stretch.

If they can stay focused and follow Corica’s blueprint, the title – and potentially more – is within reach.

📍 Auckland FC vs Sydney FC – Round 26

🗓 Saturday, 7:00 PM NZT
📍 Allianz Stadium, Sydney