Football Legend Abby Erceg to Lead Auckland FC Invitational Side Against Chelsea

In a significant boost for local football, former national captain Abby Erceg has been named as the first player to join the Auckland FC Women's Invitational XI. The veteran defender is set to take the field at Eden Park on 8 August for a high-profile clash against eight-time Women’s Super League (WSL) champions Chelsea FC Women, RNZ reports. Erceg, who retired from international duties in 2023, remains the most-capped player in the history of the Football Ferns with 146 appearances. Her storied career includes representating New Zealand at four World Cups and four Olympic Games. Most recently, the world-class defender has been playing her club football in Mexico with Toluca FC in the LIGA MX Femenil. Speaking on the appointment, Erceg expressed her desire to give back to the sport and the local community. She noted that playing against one of the top clubs in the world provides a vital platform to inspire young girls in Aotearoa, showing them that professional football is a tangible dream. Erceg stated that the opportunity to lead a group against world-class opposition is about demonstrating what is achievable for the next generation of athletes. Coach Jenny Bindon praised Erceg’s inclusion, citing her immense leadership and the role she has played in shaping the women’s game in New Zealand. Bindon noted that having a player of Erceg's character and experience will be a major asset for the invitational squad. Because Auckland FC is not scheduled to enter a women’s team into the A-League until the 2027-28 season, this invitational side was specially assembled to provide local fans and players a rare opportunity to engage with international powerhouse Chelsea FC Women.