Auckland City manager Paul Posa was thrilled with the team’s effort after they played out a 1-1 draw with Boca Juniors in the FIFA Club World Cup on Monday, Afrosport reports.
The New Zealand outfit were already eliminated from Group C after a heavy 10-0 defeat to Bayern Munich and a 1-0 loss to Benfica.
They were however able to share spoils with South American heavyweights Boca in Nashville, denying the Argentine side a place in the round of 16.
“I’m sorry to break some Boca hearts, but we worked so hard,” Posa said.
“You can’t say we haven’t learned from the experience of being at the tournament, I’m thrilled for the players and the club, it’s wonderful. It’s something to go home with.”
Posa further said it was a great result for football in the Oceania region.
“I think it’s restored a little bit of pride, a little bit of reputation for us,” he added.
“We’re a tiny club with a huge heart and that’s evident for all to see…
“I think people here just don’t have any idea how small a little club we are and where we’ve come from. So, it’s just awesome.”
A draw between @AucklandCity_FC and @BocaJrsOficial to close out Group C. 🤝
— FIFA Club World Cup (@FIFACWC) June 24, 2025
Auckland City finished bottom of Group C with one point while Boca Juniors finished third with two points.
Benfica finished top of the group after defeating Bayern Munich 1-0 in Charlotte.
