In a pulsating finish, Auckland FC became only the second team in A-League history to start their season with two wins, edging Sydney FC 1-0 with a 97th-minute winner by Nando Pijnaker.
The match saw Sydney’s potential game-winner overturned by VAR in the 82nd minute due to offside, and moments later, Auckland seized their chance.
Failing to clear a free kick, Sydney’s defense left Pijnaker unmarked, who cheekily backheeled the ball through goalkeeper Andrew Redmayne’s legs.
The home crowd at Go Media Stadium erupted, while Sydney faced injury woes, losing star winger Joe Lolley to a groin injury. The win catapulted Auckland FC to the top of the A-League standings.
ARE. YOU. NOT. ENTERTAINED????????
⚔️AKL 1-0 SYD 💎 (FT)#AKLvSYD pic.twitter.com/APqPqfOBD0
— Auckland FC (@fc_auckland) October 27, 2024
