Auckland City FC will conclude their FIFA Club World Cup campaign tomorrow in Nashville with a high-profile clash against South American giants Boca Juniors.
It’s been a tough tournament for the Navy Blues, who have suffered heavy defeats to European powerhouses Bayern Munich and Benfica. Already eliminated from the competition, Auckland now turn their focus to ending their run on a positive note against one of the most storied clubs in global football.
Boca Juniors, six-time winners of the Copa Libertadores, arrive in Nashville with everything to play for. Led by experienced stars like Edinson Cavani and Marcos Rojo, alongside emerging talents such as Kevin Zenón, the Argentine side need both a big win and help from elsewhere to reach the knockout stage. With a current goal difference of -1 compared to Benfica’s +6, Boca must improve their tally significantly—and hope Bayern defeat the Portuguese side—to advance.
For Auckland City, the match represents another chance to measure themselves against elite opposition. Despite the steep challenge, the team is embracing the opportunity to compete at this level.
Head coach Paul Posa, who returned to the sideline following the opening loss to Bayern Munich, remains realistic about the task ahead but emphasizes the importance of effort, growth, and pride.
“We know exactly what we’re up against,” Posa said during the pre-match press conference. “Boca Juniors are a global football institution with incredible talent and a rich history. That’s what makes this moment so meaningful for us.”
Reflecting on the earlier defeats—10–0 against Bayern and 6–0 to Benfica—Posa praised his players’ resilience and commitment.
“The results have been difficult, no doubt, but the response from the group has been outstanding. We’ve stayed together and used each game as a learning experience,” he said.
Asked what success would look like in their final match, Posa focused less on the scoreboard and more on the performance.
“It’s about how we play, how we compete, and the moments we create. For us, it’s about showing that Oceania football deserves to be part of this stage.”
Auckland City FCBoca Juniors 
