Chloe Knott provided the final pass for Auckland's only goal. Photo: Photosport
Auckland United FC will play in the inaugural FIFA Women's Champions Cup next year, after beating Papua New Guinea side Hekari 1-0 in the Oceania final in Papeete, Tahiti.
Auckland United retained their OFC Women's Champions League title with the victory and will play the Asian champions in a playoff next year, with the winners to face the African confederation winners in round two.
They are also well placed to be the Oceania representative at the first FIFA Club World Cup in 2028.
Hekari Women's FC proved tough opponents at Stade Pater, with the Aucklanders scoring the match's sole goal in the 26th minute, after dominating the early changes.
Midfielder Danielle Canham scored the goal, after Yume Harashima drove the ball into the box and Chloe Knott provided a back-heeled ball pass.
They came close to scoring a few more goals, but Hekari amped up their attacking game early in the second half, really testing the defence of the Ben Bate-coached side.
They passed that test and then dominated the final 15 minutes to secure the win.
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