Phoenix Captain Leads New Zealand to Winning Start in World Cup Qualifiers

In a thrilling World Cup qualifying match held in Port Vila, Vanuatu, Phoenix captain Alex Rufer played a key role in helping New Zealand’s All Whites start their campaign with a 3-0 win over Tahiti. Goals from Elijah Just, former Phoenix striker Ben Waine, and Premier League star Chris Wood sealed the victory for the Kiwis.

Rufer assisted Just and Waine with precise passes, while Wellington Phoenix full-back Scott Sutton provided the assist for Wood’s goal in the OFC Group B fixture at VFF Freshwater Stadium. Alongside Rufer, Wellington’s Tim Payne and Auckland City defender Nando Pijnaker were part of the starting XI.

The second half saw more changes, with Phoenix duo Sutton and Kosta Barbarouses coming off the bench, joined by Auckland’s Logan Rogerson and Central Coast Mariners full-back Storm Roux.

The 2024-25 Isuzu UTE A-League season is just around the corner. The two-time defending champions, Central Coast Mariners, will face Melbourne Victory in a Grand Final rematch on October 18. Auckland FC will make their A-League debut against Brisbane Roar on October 19 at Go Media Stadium, while Wellington Phoenix will host Western United at Sky Stadium on October 20.