Defending champions Auckland United FC have completed their group stage campaign with a 7-0 win over qualifying winners Puaikura FC, becoming the first club to book their place in the semi-finals of OFC Women’s Champions League 2026.

Fresh from an 11-1 win over Drehu Athletico Club, Auckland United faced a strong defensive effort from Puaikura FC, who made the reigning champions work harder for the win then their previous Group B opponents. It was another attacking masterclass from the New Zealand representatives though, scoring three goals in the first half, and a further four after the break.

Auckland controlled possession for most of the first half, but Puaikura’s organised defence limited their chances and made life difficult in the final third.  Their breakthrough arrived in the fifth minute when captain Talisha Green played a through ball to Siobhan Edwards on the right wing, who delivered a cross into the box for Sasha Adamson to finish.

Despite trailing, Puaikura stayed compact and continued to frustrate the Aucklanders with goalkeeper Kimberly Uini producing a strong performance between the sticks. The Cook Islands champions looked to threaten from counter-attacks but Auckland’s defence comfortably dealt with the danger.

Puaikura’s resistance was dealt a blow when Uini was forced off through injury, and Auckland United capitalised immediately scoring two quick goals. Charley March combined well down the left before setting up Green to double the lead, and a minute later, Green scored her second to put the defending champions firmly in control.

Auckland United resumed on the front foot after the break, moving the ball well and forcing Puaikura back into a defensive shape. Their fourth goal came when Rena Okutsu’s cross from the left found an unmarked Olivia Ingham who headed past the goalkeeper.

The pressure continued to build and Auckland United were rewarded again in the 64th minute when Talisha Green’s cross into a crowded penalty area was turned home by Sasha Adamson to complete her brace. Ingham then added her second of the match collecting a pass from Green before turning and firing home from outside the box to extend Auckland’s advantage.

Second half substitute Charlotte Roche rounded out the scoring in the 89th minute with the seventh goal. The victory sends Auckland United FC into the semi-finals unbeaten, where they will face the Group A runners-up.

Puaikura FC will meet fellow tournament debutants Drehu Athletico Club in the final Group B match on Friday local time, with a priceless place in the semi-finals on the line for the winner as the Group B runners-up.

Auckland United FC: 7 (Sasha ADAMSON 5′, 64′, Talisha GREEN 34′, 35′, Olivia INGHAM 55′, 68′, Charlotte ROCHE 89′)

Puaikura FC: 0

HT: 3 – 0
Photo credit: OFC Media via Phototek