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Find your Sport Nation frequencyVote Pedro: Auckland FC and Phoenix set for derby showdown
Sport Nation • November 5th, 2026 11:09 am
Auckland FC Head Coach Pedro Moreira | Photo: Photosport
The votes are in, the flags are ready, and Auckland FC’s Pedro Moreira is campaigning for a big Saturday at Go Media Stadium.
Moreira’s side will host the Wellington Phoenix at 5pm, with both teams looking to make their mark in a derby that needs little extra motivation.
The last meeting between the sides saw Auckland dominate in Wellington, winning 5-0. Phoenix coach Giancarlo Italiano resigned after the final whistle.
His replacement, Chris Greenacre, has made a dream start to his first full season in charge, with the Phoenix sitting top of the table after three wins.
With the balance of power in the A-League shifted, Phoenix fans may see this as their best chance yet to claim a first win over their Kiwi counterparts.
Auckland’s new coach, Moreira, has had a less-than-ideal start, with a win, a loss and a draw in his first three matches in charge.
He was pleased with Auckland’s defensive work in last week’s 1-1 draw with Brisbane Roar, but felt a late set piece changed the result. Now, he wants his players to give their home fans something to get behind in the derby.
Thomas Aldred of the Roar scores a late goal to secure a 1-1 draw against Auckland FC | Photo: Photosport
“After that last second goal (against Brisbane Roar), we must increase the values and the motivation for the game,” Moreira told Scotty & Izzy.
“I think it's one game that we don't need to speak a lot, the motivation is there.”
The Auckland coach says his team has been working on how to use the ball and make the most of the spaces against a Phoenix side in good form.
“It's to have a possibility to create chances to play in our house in Go Media Stadium to show to our fans what we want for this game for the season,” he said.
Moreira also hopes the crowd can make the derby uncomfortable for the visitors, who are fired up in chasing their first win over Auckland.
“Give some noise around, create problems for the Phoenix, and enjoy the game.”
And with fans already getting behind the “Vote Pedro” campaign for election day, the coach had a message for his supporters:
“I'm in campaign, mate, so I'm ready, I will have my flag around. Vote for me but support the players.”
Listen to the full interview below:
Vote Pedro! | Scotty & Izzy
