Auckland City FC knocked out of Intercontinental Cup
by RNZ Sport · RNZAuckland City FC's FIFA Intercontinental Cup hopes have been dashed with a 6-2 loss to reigning Asian champions Al Ain FC in the United Arab Emirates.
Auckland City were in the competition by virtue of winning the Oceania Champions League title, but found the Abu Dhabi-based team too strong at Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium, their home stadium.
Al Ain scored the first two goals before the Aucklanders found their rhythm in the hot conditions.
Jerson Lagos' corner kick eluded everyone before curling into the net to get them on the scoreboard, but Al Ain closed out the first half with their third goal.
Auckland City made a strong start to the second half with Gerrard Garriga setting up Myer Bevan with a nifty pass. Former All Whites striker Bevan, who has returned to the club after a stint in Canada, slotted the goal tidily.
The Aucklanders were battling strongly, but Al Ain had a withering finish, scoring three goals in the last 11 minutes.
Al Ain will play Egyptian side Al Ahly in the next round later this month in Cairo.
The tournament comprises the six teams who won continental championships in each FIFA confederation in a knockout format.
The Aucklanders' build-up had included a 2-1 win win over Abu Dhabi division two side, Arabian Falcons.