Neyder Moreno’s dramatic stoppage-time free-kick salvaged a 2-2 draw for Auckland FC against Melbourne City, preserving their unbeaten start to the 2024-25 A-League season.
Moreno’s perfectly placed 95th-minute strike came after a rollercoaster match at AAMI Park, where Auckland showed resilience despite setbacks, including a disallowed goal and a costly own goal by Nando Pijnaker.
Earlier, Guillermo May had equalized in the second half after Medin Memeti’s opener for City, but the match seemed lost until Moreno’s late heroics. The draw keeps Auckland atop the league table, two points clear, as they continue their remarkable debut season.
Auckland FC’s performance highlighted their fighting spirit, particularly in the chaotic second half, where they dominated possession and increased their attacking intensity.
A disallowed goal in the 74th minute and Pijnaker’s unfortunate backpass underscored the drama, but the team rallied under coach Steve Corica’s leadership. Moreno’s free-kick ensured Auckland remained unbeaten, avoiding their first loss and keeping them on track to challenge historic A-League records.
