Reigning A-League champions Auckland FC will host a training session open to the public this Friday at McLean Park, a final hit-out before they play a pre-season clash against Western Sydney Wanderers on Saturday.
Napier City Council Events Manager Kevin Murphy says the fixture is a rare chance for the region to see the champions up close, and an important build-up match for Auckland FC as they prepare for the 2026-27 A-League season kick-off on 17 October.
“This is a big pre-season test for Auckland FC as they prepare to defend their title, and Hawke’s Bay gets a front row seat. It’s not often a team of this calibre plays in Napier,” Murphy said.
The match day will open with a curtain-raiser between Napier City Rovers and Palmerston North United. It will be the first time Napier City Rovers have played at McLean Park in 26 years.
Auckland FC’s new Head Coach, Pedro Moreira, said there’s lots of competition for starting places within the squad as the new season approaches.
“The pre-season game is important to hone our playing style and combinations as we get closer to the start of the A-League. We know there will be big expectations on the side as we head into a new season, and time on the field for many of our players is really important,” Moreira said.
Both teams arrive in Napier on Thursday afternoon, with Auckland FC holding an open public training session at McLean Park between 10.30am and 12pm on Friday, giving fans a free chance to watch the champions up close before match day.
Behind the scenes, McLean Park’s ground staff face a quick turnaround to prepare the venue for football after the Magpies played at the ground on Sunday.
Murphy said crews would relay the pitch markings for football and get the surface ready to football standard.
“It’s a tight turnaround, but our ground staff know exactly what’s required to get the surface ready. Straight after the Magpies game, the markings come off and go back on for football, and the surface gets the full treatment. McLean Park will be in great shape by kick-off,” Murphy said.
MATCH DETAILS
⚽️ Auckland FC vs. Western Sydney Wanderers
Curtain-raiser: Napier City Rovers vs. Palmerston North United
🏟️ McLean Park, Napier
🗓️ Saturday 19th September
🎟️  Tickets via Ticketek. Adults from $20 (in Family Zone) – www.ticketek.co.nz
Open Training: McLean Park, Friday 10:30am – 12pm (FREE)
