Liam Giilion’s late goal seals Auckland City dramatic stoppage-time win over resiliet Hekari United in OFC Champions League

In a pulsating encounter at the OFC Men’s Champions League, Auckland City FC secured a crucial 1-0 win over Papua New Guinea’s champions, Hekari United, thanks to a dramatic stoppage-time goal from Liam Gillion. The victory breathes new life into Auckland City’s campaign following their opening day draw against Rewa FC of Fiji.

Auckland City, the defending champions, dominated possession in the first half but struggled to break down a resolute Hekari United defense. Gerard Garriga had the best chances for the New Zealanders, narrowly missing the target on two occasions. Despite their control, Auckland City could not convert their dominance into goals in the opening 45 minutes.

Hekari United, coming off a strong second-half performance in their 2-0 win over Solomon Warriors last week, posed a constant threat on the counterattack. Ati Kepo, Hekari’s standout player, had the best opportunity in the first half but shot over the bar from a promising position.

The second half mirrored the first, with Auckland City continuing to press while Hekari United defended resolutely. The hot and humid conditions in Tahiti took a toll on both teams, slowing the pace of the game. Liam Gillion emerged as Auckland City’s primary attacking threat, testing Hekari goalkeeper Dave Tomare with a well-struck shot in the 56th minute and a free-kick that just missed the target.

As the match approached its conclusion, Auckland City’s desperation for a goal grew. Substitute Stipe Ukich’s shot narrowly missed, and Tomare made a crucial save to deny Garriga in the dying moments of regular time.

However, the breakthrough finally came in stoppage time. Garriga, latching onto a brilliant through ball, squared it across the face of goal for Gillion, who tapped in from close range to send Auckland City’s supporters into raptures.

Hekari United put up a valiant fight, with Tomare’s heroics in goal keeping them in the match until the very end. Despite their solid defensive performance and control of the ball for much of the second half, a lapse in concentration in injury time proved costly.

With this victory, Auckland City bounces back from their initial 2-2 draw against Rewa, keeping their hopes alive for a semi-final berth. Hekari United, despite the loss, remain in contention and will look to secure a spot in the next round in their final group match against Rewa. Auckland City will face Solomon Warriors in what promises to be a decisive match for both teams.

The final group matchday is set to be an exciting conclusion to the group stage, with all teams still in with a chance to progress. Auckland City’s resilience and Gillion’s late heroics have set the stage for a thrilling finish to the group phase of the OFC Men’s Champions League.