A-League Season Begins: Auckland FC and Wellington Phoenix Aim for Glory

The 2025/26 A-League season kicks off on Friday, featuring 12 teams competing for the coveted Championship title. This season marks a significant shift in the league’s landscape, as Western United was placed into hibernation in September, reducing the number of teams. With no byes in the 26-round regular season, six teams will qualify for the finals series, beginning in early May. Notably, this year introduces a trial of salary cap changes aimed at enhancing competition.

Auckland FC, who finished top of the league in their inaugural season, are eager to build on their success. The team set several records, including the fastest club to score 50 goals in A-League history and achieving the highest average attendance. Despite their impressive run, Auckland’s season ended abruptly with a semi-final loss to Melbourne Victory.

In the off-season, Auckland FC made strategic changes, parting ways with key players like goalkeeper Alex Paulsen and vice-captain Tommy Smith. New arrivals include Lachlan Brook, Oli Sail, and Sam Cosgrove, all of whom coach Steve Corica hopes will contribute to an exciting playing style. “I’m just excited for the second year to see if we can be as consistent as the first year,” Corica stated. He emphasized the importance of maintaining their defensive strength and aiming for clean sheets.

Visa player Guillermo May returns for a second season and recognizes areas for improvement. “We have to take care of the ball a little bit more,” he remarked, highlighting the need for ongoing development.

Meanwhile, Auckland FC’s chief executive officer, Nick Becker, expressed optimism about the future of football in Australia. He attributed some current challenges to “apathy across the wider sport” but believes that the passion from fans will eventually revive the league’s fortunes.

In contrast, Wellington Phoenix is aiming to rebound after a disappointing 2024/25 season, where they finished 11th out of 13 teams. Coach Giancarlo Italiano retained his position despite the struggles, and captain Alex Rufer, now in his 13th season, is determined to lead the team back into the top six. Rufer faced personal challenges last season due to illness but remains positive about the upcoming campaign.

“We know as individuals and as a group a few of our shortcomings of last year,” Rufer said. The team has made significant signings in the off-season, including Ifeanyi Eze and Carlo Armiento, which Rufer believes will enhance their squad’s character and performance.

The Phoenix’s youth players gained valuable experience last season, which Rufer insists will benefit the team moving forward. “The best way to learn is by sinking or swimming,” he said, reflecting on the challenges faced by younger players.

As the season begins, the Phoenix will kick off their campaign with a match against Perth Glory, with Rufer emphasizing the importance of focus on each game rather than looking too far ahead. “You always have to believe; you have to start well but also make sure that even if we don’t start well, we keep the belief.”

The A-League women’s competition is set to begin shortly, with the Phoenix women’s team facing Canberra United on November 8, 2025.

Since last season’s Grand Final, which saw Melbourne City take home the trophy, the league has seen significant activity, including 110 new player signings and multiple coaching changes. Corica noted, “It’s hard to say right now until you see the first couple of games and see how things start to pan out.”

This season promises to be competitive, with teams like the Newcastle Jets and Brisbane Roar making headlines with their pre-season form. As anticipation builds, both Auckland FC and Wellington Phoenix will be looking to make their mark and chase silverware in the A-League.