Corica's pre-Derby swipe: 'The record speaks for itself, doesn’t it?’

Corica's Pre-Derby Swipe: 'The Record Speaks for Itself, Doesn’t It?'

Auckland FC and Wellington Phoenix are set to clash in the first New Zealand Derby of the Isuzu UTE A-League 2025–26 season this Saturday. Both teams enter Round 4 unbeaten, promising an intense encounter filled with rivalry and pride.

Coaches Exchange Words Ahead of the Match

Auckland FC head coach Steve Corica responded to comments made by Wellington Phoenix coach Giancarlo Italiano before the highly anticipated weekend showdown. The reigning premiers from Auckland will travel to Wellington, renewing one of the most heated battles in New Zealand football.

Last season’s fixture in Auckland ended with a 2–1 victory for the Black Knights, after which Corica criticized Italiano for making pre-match statements he considered disrespectful. At the time, Italiano had suggested Auckland were “there for the taking” and had been “very lucky the past four games.”

“Disrespectful,” Corica said, calling out Italiano’s remarks following their sixth consecutive win of the campaign.

Renewed Rivalry and Mind Games

Following a recent 1–1 draw with Central Coast Mariners, Italiano revisited last season’s war of words in a lighthearted tone. Speaking to reporters, he said:

“I learned my lesson last year with Steve obviously taking offence to what I said, which I still think is the truth.”

This week, Corica was quick to answer once again, maintaining his stance and confidence before another derby that promises to deliver high drama.

Summary

Steve Corica and Giancarlo Italiano reignite their verbal duel as Auckland FC and Wellington Phoenix prepare for an undefeated showdown in the season’s first New Zealand Derby.

Author’s resume: In this pre-derby clash, competitive spirit and past tensions between Corica and Italiano heighten anticipation for New Zealand’s fiercest football matchup.

A-Leagues — 2025-11-07