OFC Pro League Ladder Leaders in Town

]

The Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) Professional League competition leaders, Auckland FC, touched down at Jackson’s International Airport yesterday (January 27th) ahead of the inaugural league’s Round 2 fixtures at Santos National Football Stadium from January 31st to February 8th, 2026.

Auckland stamped their authority in the opening round, recording 3 convincing victories against the South Island United FC of New Zealand’s Christchurch, Vanuatu United FC, and Fiji’s Bula FC, and comfortably topping the standings with 9 points. 

Speaking to the media upon arrival at Jackson’s International Airport, Auckland FC captain Michael Den Heijer said this was his first time in PNG, including most of his teammates, mentioning that they would adjust to Port Moresby’s humid conditions.

“I haven’t been to PNG, including a lot of my teammates, so I’m very excited to be here. We know it’s going to be very tough - the conditions are not going to be easy for us, but we are up for the challenge,” he stated.

Despite being unbeaten after the conclusion of round one, skipper Heijer admitted that they would not rest on their laurels, noting that there are other serious contenders in the competition.

Auckland has a young roster, coupled with a few experienced campaigners, who are setting their sights on lifting the inaugural trophy.

The New Zealand-based team will hit the paddock this afternoon in anticipation of registering their fourth consecutive win when they meet the winless PNG Hekari FC in Round 2 of the opening match of the OFC Pro League on Saturday. 

Meanwhile, the six other teams comprising South Melbourne FC, Solomon Kings FC, South Island United FC, Bula FC, Tahiti United FC, and Vanuatu United FC will arrive on PNG’s shores today and tomorrow. 

PC: Supplied