Moreira believes Auckland FC can grow after Al Ahli defeat

Auckland FC manager Pedro Moreira says his side can take confidence from their performance despite losing 1-0 to Al Ahli in the opening round of the FIFA Intercontinental Cup 2026TM in Jeddah on Wednesday.

Saleh Abu Al-Shamat scored the winning goal for the Saudi club at Alinma Stadium, sending Al Ahli through to the second round after a closely contested match against the New Zealand side.

Moreira said Al Ahli had proved to be an extremely difficult opponent, having studied their performances and attacking record in the build-up to the game.

“Al Ahli’s performance with their new manager was good. We analysed them throughout the past few days and watched their goals. Their scoring average is two goals per match, and they are distinguished by counter-attacks and their attacking approach,” he said at his post-match news conference.

The Portuguese coach also acknowledged the quality of the opposition, describing Al Ahli as the champions of Asia and a very strong team.

“We played against the champions of Asia. They are a very strong team. We came prepared, studied their tactics and played well. With more training, our team will be stronger in the future,” Moreira added.

Although Auckland FC were unable to find an equaliser, Moreira said he was proud of the players’ display in front of a large crowd at Alinma Stadium. The club are preparing for a new season that begins in October, meaning the match formed part of their preparations before their domestic campaign gets under way.

“Our performance was excellent as we prepare for the new season, which begins in October. We are proud of what we produced in this big stadium and in front of these big crowds,” he said.

Moreira explained that Auckland had focused on reducing the space available to Al Ahli’s key players. His team had played two friendly matches before the tournament and attempted to frustrate the Saudi side by limiting their attacking options.

The visitors were unable to turn their late pressure into an equaliser, with Moreira saying his players had not been able to take advantage of the opportunities that came in the final minutes.

Despite the result, he insisted the defeat should not damage Auckland FC’s outlook as they continue their preparations.

“The loss is not the end of the road,” Moreira said.

The match was played on Wednesday at Alinma Stadium in Jeddah as part of the first round of the FIFA Intercontinental Cup 2026TM. Al Ahli’s victory by a single goal was also summarised in a post referring to the tournament and the result, while supporters were invited to discuss the match and wider football news on Kooora forums.