Wellington Phoenix Coach Confident Ahead of Kiwi Derby
Wellington Phoenix head coach Giancarlo Italiano expressed confidence that his team is ready to handle the pressure of tonight’s first A-League Kiwi derby of the season against Auckland FC in the capital.
“I'm backing my side to handle the occasion,” said Italiano before the clash.
Challenging History
The Phoenix have yet to defeat the Black Knights, having lost all three encounters in the previous season. Despite that record, Italiano remains positive and wants his players to stay composed and courageous under pressure.
“I want the boys to be brave and to stick to our gameplan,” he emphasized.
Match Context
The derby marks the first meeting of the campaign between the two New Zealand teams in the A-League and carries high expectations from both sets of supporters in Wellington and Auckland.
Author’s Summary
Italiano’s confidence sets an optimistic tone as Wellington Phoenix look to overturn their losing streak against Auckland FC in tonight’s high-stakes Kiwi derby.