Auckland United hold off Hekari to win OFC final

Auckland United FC's Chloe Knott competing for possession against her Hekari United opponent during the final of the OFC Women's Champions League 2025 in Stade Pater, Papeete, Tahiti on Saturday 17 May 2025 *(Image: Shane Wenzlick / OFC)*

Danielle Canham's only goal in the 26th minute was enough for Auckland United to retain the OFC Women's Champions League title in Tahiti.

The winning margin was similar to last year's grand final as Auckland held off a gallant Hekari side 1-0, preventing what could have been an historical moment for women's football in Papua New Guinea.

Hekari had their chances in the first stanza creating opportunities, but the Auckland defence, led by skipper Talisha Green was well organized and kept Hekari at bay.

Leading 1-0, Auckland kept building pressure in attack with attempts to extend their lead, but Hekari scrambled in defence and held on.

Auckland United celebrate winning the OFC Women's Champions League 2025, Final (Image: Shane Wenzlick / OFC)

Auckland United's victory has secured them a spot in the inaugural FIFA Women's Champions Cup scheduled for next year.

Adding to Auckland's accolades, the golden glove award was awarded to Hannah Mitchell, and the golden boot was picked up by Zoe Benson, who scored eight goals ahead of Hekari's Marie Kaipu, who scored seven.

Auckland's captain Talisha Green was super excited.

"I'm so proud of the girls, the coaching staff and everyone that supported us behind the scenes,' she said.

"We've had a lot of obstacles, we've had injuries, but I can't thank enough those that stood behind us to get us here."

Hekari on the other hand will return home and prepare for another season in the domestic Women's Conference Soccer League set to kick off in the coming months.