Fifa Club World Cup: How Auckland City FC's wild ride charmed the football world
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
RNZ News
6 days ago
- RNZ News
Former All White Marco Rojas announces retirement
Marco Rojas of New Zealand All Whites. Photo: Former All Whites and Wellington Phoenix player Marco Rojas has announced his retirement from professional football. The 33-year-old New Zealand international made 155 A-League appearances over 16 years, with stints at the Phoenix, Melbourne Victory and Brisbane Roar. He also played for clubs in Europe and South America. The All Whites winger returned to Wellington for the 2024-25 season but injuries meant he made just seven appearances before the mutual agreement to terminate his contract three months early. Earlier this month Rojas returned briefly to his former club Victory to take part in pre-season training. "Now I can put the curiosity to bed, and acknowledge that it's time for me to move on. I am ready. I will not be playing anymore week in and week out like the professionals do," Rojas told A-Leagues. "I'm yet to know what type of football I might play down the line, although I really love the idea of keeping fit for the odd charity or community game." Rojas played 45 times for the All Whites after making his debut in 2011. He won the Johnny Warren Medal following the 2012-23 A-League season. Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero , a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.
NZ Herald
19-07-2025
- NZ Herald
Football: All Whites defender Liberato Cacace joins Wrexham on three-year deal
All Whites defender Liberato Cacace has signed with Wrexham AFC on the eve of their friendly clash with the Wellington Phoenix. Wrexham owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney have splashed the cash for the 24-year-old, with reports saying the Welsh club has paid a transfer fee of around $8.9m for
RNZ News
17-07-2025
- RNZ News
All White Tommy Smith leaves Auckland FC
Auckland FC's Tommy Smith takes a team photo. Photo: Shane Wenzlick / Auckland FC vice-captain Tommy Smith has left the A-League club after one season to return to the United Kingdom. The club said the centre-back made the decision to depart "in order to devote more time and support to his young family". Smith has two children with his wife Leanne. The All White made 25 appearances for Auckland FC last season, including 12 starts, and helped guide the team to a historic milestone as the first New Zealand side to lift A-League silverware . "It's been an incredible year in Auckland, and I was able to lift silverware. That's something I'll carry with me forever," Smith said. "The team, staff and fans made me feel so welcome returning back to Auckland. I'm truly grateful to have played a part in such a special first chapter for this club. It was a difficult decision to leave such a special city. "From the first day of pre-season, the journey we shared has been unforgettable. There's a real sense of pride in what we built together. The fans created an atmosphere and community that made it feel like home. They've truly reignited the passion for football in Auckland." With a career spanning the English Championship, Major League Soccer, and the international stage with the All Whites, Smith brought a wealth of international and professional experience into the squad. His influence extended beyond the pitch as he was recognised by The Port as their "Hero of the Year" for his contribution to the fans. Auckland FC director of football Terry McFlynn said Smith had been a leader on and off the field. "He bought into the vision of what we're building at Auckland FC." Club chief executive officer Nick Becker said Smith would always be remembered as a "proud member" of our inaugural squad. "He is part of a team that made history and will be remembered with fondness. We completely respect his decision to depart, and we wish him and his family all the best for the future." Auckland FC play their first pre-season game on 22 July and play their first Australia Cup game on 29 July. Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero , a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.
