BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Defending champions Auckland United FC have made a powerful statement in their opening match of the OFC Women’s Champions League 2026 after overwhelming New Caledonian champions Drehu Athletico FC 11-1 at the National Stadium in Honiara.
Played under the Honiara lights on Saturday night, the tournament opener attracted hundreds of supporters as the capital’s football atmosphere came alive with cheers and chants from the stands.
Auckland United’s dominance was reflected through their attacking quality, with goals shared across the squad as they showed why they entered the competition as defending champions.
Auckland United captain Talisha Green said the team was pleased not only with the score line but with the overall team performance.
“Obviously scoring 11 goals is great, but the togetherness of the team and the way we came together to play is what I am most proud of,” Green said.
Green highlighted the contribution of debutant Sasha, who scored a hat-trick in her first appearance at the tournament.
“She is an international player for us coming from the UK, and to score a hat-trick is outstanding. I am super proud of her,” she said.
The captain said the team needed time to settle into the match after Drehu Atletico started with strong energy.
“Once we settled into the game and got one or two goals, we found our rhythm and our routine and started to take control of the match,” Green said.
Coach Jo Dawkins said the opening victory was an important first step in an unfamiliar tournament environment.
“It is always nice to get the first game out of the way. The conditions are different, the opposition is unknown, and there are nerves in the camp,” Dawkins said.
He praised the team’s collective approach, saying the result was built on unity rather than individual performances.
“The team is very connected. They celebrate together, they play for each other, and ultimately they won as a team,” Dawkins said.
Auckland United will now turn their attention to their next fixture as they continue their OFC Women’s Champions League campaign.
The OFC Women’s Champions League 2026 brings together the best women’s club sides from across the Pacific, with matches being hosted in Honiara as the Solomon Islands showcases its passion and love for football.
Photo credit: OFC
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