Auckland FC topped the A-League table in their first season to claim the Premiership and New Zealand’s first piece of Australian domestic silverware. Although they were knocked out of the A-League finals, Auckland easily progressed in the Australia Cup by defeating Gold Coast Knights (NPL Qld) 4-0 to qualify for this stage of the cup.

Auckland is managed by A-League winning coach, Steve Corica. The team is known for its defensive discipline and counter attacks. They will be a tough team to break down. Key players are Japanese defender Hiroki Sakai, and Uruguayan forward Guillermo May.