Wellington Phoenix’s Italiano Brushes Off Auckland FC Taunts Ahead of Inaugural NZ Derby

Anticipation Mounts for Historic New Zealand Showdown

Wellington, New Zealand — Ahead of the much-anticipated New Zealand Derby, Wellington Phoenix head coach Giancarlo “Chiefy” Italiano has dismissed claims that all eyes and pressure rest on his side as they prepare to face Auckland FC at Wellington’s Sky Stadium this Saturday. As Phoenix and Auckland FC hold the top two spots on the Isuzu UTE A-League ladder, this rivalry is already building a fervent following across New Zealand.

With an unbeaten streak, Auckland FC sits atop the standings with two wins in two matches, but Italiano’s response to taunts from his Auckland counterpart downplays the hype. “I find that very hard to believe,” he remarked with a wry smile when asked about Steve Corica’s assertion that Wellington should be feeling the heat.

Italiano Challenges Corica’s Pressure Claim

In a pre-match press conference, Italiano pointed out that Auckland has yet to play outside New Zealand, whereas his team has just returned from Perth. “With the resources Corica has at his disposal, I’d say he’s the strong favorite,” Italiano added, subtly shifting the pressure onto Auckland.

As the Phoenix prepare for their third round with four points on the board, they currently sit in second place. With Sky Stadium expected to host more than 20,000 fans, Italiano emphasized that the event is about community and pride, saying, “Derbies are really about the fans, the build-up, and that home advantage. It’s about the energy — the boasting rights.”

Italiano Reflects on Derby Rivalries and Embracing the Spectacle

Italiano, a veteran of some of the world’s most iconic derbies, shared his experience of the 2011 El Clasico showdown between Pep Guardiola and Jose Mourinho. He highlighted how the hype around these events elevates the game for both fans and players. “Our players know that the approach is the same,” Italiano said. “Yes, there’s extra hype, but if we beat Auckland, it’s still just three points.”

While both sets of fans eagerly await this first-ever New Zealand A-League derby, Italiano expects his side to stay grounded and focus on their own game. “It’s new, but once we play that first game, the monkey will be off our back,” he remarked.

Wellington Fans Rally Behind the Phoenix

With the Phoenix’s devoted “Yellow Fever” fan section sold out and many Auckland fans expected to travel, Italiano acknowledged the vital role Wellington’s supporters will play. “They’re everything. We need them out in force, we need to fill the stadium,” he urged. “It’s a celebration of what Wellington football represents. We want our fans to have something to be proud of.”

Italiano drew comparisons to previous high-stakes matches, underscoring the sense of occasion this derby brings. “This is about New Zealand, about who holds the crown of football in this country right now.”

Key Players: Rufer Out, Retre Set to Step Up

Despite the excitement, the Phoenix face a setback with captain Alex Rufer ruled out due to a bursar injury sustained during their recent win over Perth Glory. Italiano confirmed, “It was inflamed, and the swelling hasn’t subsided enough. It would be too risky to play him.”

However, Italiano expressed confidence in new signing Paulo Retre, who is set to make his season debut in place of Rufer. Retre, a seasoned midfielder and two-time A-League champion with Sydney FC, recently returned to the league after a stint with India’s FC Goa. Italiano sees Retre as an ideal fit to fill the captain’s role.

Adding to the lineup boost, Marco Rojas, who rejoined Phoenix earlier this season but has been sidelined with a leg injury, is expected to make his second debut for the club. With a fully recovered squad bolstered by experienced players, Phoenix fans have plenty to cheer for this Saturday.

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