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FIFA World Cup 2026 posterAuckland FC motivated to deny coach's former club in A-League grand final
Sport Nation • May 21st, 2026 2:25 pm
Michael Woud | Photo: Photosport
Auckland FC goalkeeper Michael Woud is feeling the weight on his shoulders to deliver for the locals in Saturday's A-league grand final.
Once made available to the general public, tickets for their clash with Sydney FC flew off the shelves, selling out in just six minutes.
“There's a huge responsibility to do well and we know that we have the support of the whole city, which is just amazing,” he told Sport Nation’s Scotty & Izzy on Thursday.
After just two seasons in the competition, Auckland FC secured their first spot in a grand final after beating Adelaide United 3-0 in their semi-final last weekend.
Despite boarding a flight heading to the FIFA World Cup next week, Woud vows he has one last job to complete in keeping Sydney FC’s hands off the championship trophy.
What role the third goalkeeper plays in New Zealand's FIFA World Cup squad? | Sport Nation
Woud admitted it's a “huge motivation” to get one up over coach Steve Corica’s former side, who he led to two A-League titles.
The Black Knights have never lost to the Sydneysiders, with two wins and three draws in their head-to-head history.
“We had a lot of really close games with them this year and even last year, and we know how much of an effort we need to beat them.”
Michael Woud on the competitive nature of goalkeeping | Millsy & Guy
The 27-year-old said he’s been able to find his groove this season through consistent game time, allowing him to gain momentum and build confidence.
The match kicks off at 8.10pm, Saturday at Auckland's Go Media Stadium in Auckland.
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