A-League: Wellington Phoenix vs Auckland FC – Match Recap, Highlights & Standings
- Jake Stewart
- Feb 21
- 2 min read
Randall leads the rout against local rivals, a victory that even led to the coach's dismissal
In a thrilling Matchday 18 encounter, Wellington Phoenix it lost Auckland FC at home today (21) at Sky Stadium. Auckland FC entered the match as favorites, even in a local derby.
Article about the previous match(Auckland FC): https://www.sportsenews.online/post/a-league-sydney-fc-vs-auckland-fc-match-recap-highlights-standings
Article about the previous match(Wellington Phoenix): https://www.sportsenews.online/post/a-league-wellington-phoenix-2-2-melbourne-city-match-recap-highlights-standings
Match Report
WEL 0x5 AUC – Isuzu A-League 2025-26 | Round 18
Venue: Sky Stadium (Wellington, New Zealand)
Attendance: 21k
Date & Time: 2/21/2026
Goals: Randall(30' 45'), May(41'), Brook(74'), Oluwayemi(Own goal 24')
First Half
The game started with immense pressure on coach Giancarlo Italiano to win this local derby, especially given the playoff qualification prospects, which were once again in contention. However, in the 24th minute, Oluwayemi scored an own goal, and less than 6 minutes later, Randall scored the second. The rout was completed before halftime with May and Randall scoring again.
Second Half
The Phoenix coach even changed the goalkeeper at halftime, and after a while he also changed the Lebanese striker Najjarine, but it had no effect on the score, because Auckland FC sealed the historic rout at their rival's home ground in the 74th minute with a goal from Australian Brook.
Standings and next round
Coach Giancarlo Italiano was sacked after the heavy defeat, leaving the team 5 points behind the Finals Series zone. The team now prepares for a home game against Sydney FC on the 28th, while Auckland FC, just 1 point behind the leader, faces Melbourne City at home on the 28th.
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