Rewa holds Auckland City to a draw in the first match of OFC Champions League 2024

In an electrifying start to the OFC Men’s Champions League 2024, Fiji’s Rewa FC put on a resilient display against the defending champions, Auckland City FC, resulting in a thrilling 2-2 draw at Stade Paea in Tahiti.

The match, which initially saw a subdued first half, burst into life in the second period, with both teams exchanging blows in a frenetic twenty-minute spell.

Auckland City’s captain, Cam Howieson, set the tone early in the second half, breaking the deadlock with a sublime left-footed strike from the edge of the box. However, Rewa responded emphatically, with Josaia Sela netting a quick-fire brace to stun the New Zealand side and take the lead.

Sela’s goals showcased both his clinical finishing ability and Rewa’s potent counterattacking threat, as they punished Auckland City’s defensive lapses. The first goal stemmed from a swift counter, exploiting space left by Auckland City’s defense, while the second was a long-range effort that found the bottom corner of the net.

Nevertheless, Auckland City rallied swiftly, with Howieson turning provider for substitute Ryan De Vries, who displayed composure to level the scoreline with a well-taken finish.

As the match approached its conclusion, both teams pushed for a winner in the sweltering conditions of a midday kickoff. Liam Gillion came agonizingly close for Auckland City, narrowly missing the target with a fierce effort.

Ultimately, Rewa held firm to secure a commendable result against the reigning champions. While they may have harbored hopes of securing a victory after taking the lead, the draw serves as a statement of their potential in the tournament.

The match highlighted the competitive nature of the OFC Champions League and the unpredictability of football, as underdog Rewa showcased their resilience and ability to challenge established powerhouses like Auckland City.

Looking ahead, both teams will aim to build on this opening fixture as they navigate their respective paths in the tournament. For Rewa, the draw will serve as a confidence booster as they seek to progress through the group stages and make their mark on the continental stage.

As for Auckland City, they will view the result as a wake-up call, highlighting areas for improvement as they aim to defend their title and assert their dominance in the OFC Champions League once again. Both sides return to action in midweek: Auckland City takes on Papua New Guinea’s Hekari United as Solomon Warriors, the Solomon Islands champions, will be the opposition against Rewa.