Who Will Claim the Final Spots in the Grand Final?

Birkenhead United leads the charge as the men’s National League approaches its thrilling conclusion, with four teams still vying for a place in the Grand Final.

National League Title Race Heats Up

This weekend marks the decisive round of the National League, where the final two spots in the men’s Grand Final remain fiercely contested. On the women’s side, Auckland United and CF-Waterside Karori have already secured their places, but the men’s competition is wide open as four teams vie for a shot at glory.

Both Grand Finals will be held on Sunday, December 1st, at North Harbour Stadium, with the women’s final kicking off at 1:00 PM, followed by the men’s clash at 4:00 PM.

Birkenhead United: The Team to Beat

Birkenhead United, coached by Paul Hobson, are in prime position heading into the final round. Sitting at the top of the table, they face Cashmere Technical on Saturday at 2:00 PM. A win will guarantee their spot in the Grand Final.

Even with a draw, “Birko” could still secure their place if:

• Western Springs fail to win, or
• Western Springs win but don’t surpass Birkenhead in goals scored, or
• Auckland City FC don’t win.

A loss would make things trickier, but Birkenhead could still qualify if two of the top four teams fail to win their matches.

Auckland City FC: Aiming for Certainty

In second place, Auckland City FC, led by Albert Riera, also have a strong chance of qualifying. They host Coastal Spirit at Kiwitea Street on Sunday, and a victory would guarantee their spot.

A draw could suffice, but only if:

• Neither Western Springs nor Napier City Rovers win, or
• Birkenhead United lose, and Western Springs or Napier City Rovers fail to win.

A loss would leave Auckland City relying on results elsewhere, specifically needing neither Western Springs nor Napier City Rovers to win.

Western Springs: Slim Hopes, Big Pressure

Western Springs, currently in third, face Wellington Phoenix Reserves in a must-win match. Scott Hales’ side must also rely on specific scenarios to secure their place:

• Birkenhead United lose, or
• If Birkenhead United draw, Western Springs must win by at least two goals and surpass Birkenhead in goals scored for the season.

If goal tallies are tied, Birkenhead’s head-to-head record against Western Springs would send them through.

Napier City Rovers: Fighting Against the Odds

Napier City Rovers, coached by Bill Robertson, sit in fourth and face the steepest challenge. They must defeat Wellington Olympic and hope for favorable outcomes in other matches. Their only paths to the final are:

• Auckland City FC and Western Springs both fail to win, or
• Birkenhead United lose, and either Auckland City FC or Western Springs fail to win.

A New Champion Guaranteed

Last year’s champions, Wellington Olympic, are officially out of contention, ensuring a new team will lift the trophy this season. Fans can expect high drama as the National League’s most competitive season concludes.

Catch all the action live and free on FIFA+ as the road to North Harbour Stadium reaches its climax.