Preparing for FISU Football World Cup

The Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland’s mens football team achieved a remarkable victory in the FISU Oceania University World Cup Football Qualifier held in November 2022. Their journey to this prestigious competition began with a national play-off victory against the University of Canterbury mens team in September 2022. This win paved the way for the University of Auckland to represent Oceania in the qualifying tournament. 

Facing off against Western Sydney University, champions of the Unisport Australia Nationals on 28 November 2022, the University of Auckland led at half-time 2-1. The second half saw them extend their dominance with three additional goals, securing a convincing 5-1 victory. This victory saw the team head to China to represent the University and Oceania on the world stage at the 2023 FISU University World Cup Football Cup held 21-31 October 2023. Facing fierce competition from other universities, the team performed commendably.  

Thanks to funding support from the Asia New Zealand Foundation Te Whītau Tūhono, the team were also able to take part in a cultural exchange and visited some of the sites of Jinjiang, China where the World Cup was being held. 

The Asia New Zealand Foundation’s support aims to encourage cultural understanding and strengthen relationships between New Zealand and Asian nations. This initiative aligns with the rising influence of Asia in the global sports arena, as highlighted in a recent report by the Foundation.  

Overall, the University of Auckland’s participation in the FISU Oceania University World Cup Football Qualifier is a testament to their dedication and hard work.