Welcome to Wellington: Phoenix Kids Stun Hollywood-Backed Wrexham

On the same day Wrexham signed All Whites star Liberato Cacace, New Zealand football’s next generation announced themselves to the world by shocking the Hollywood-backed club. At Sky Stadium, Wellington Phoenix secured a 1-0 victory over Wrexham in a thrilling match that had fans on the edge of their seats.

The match saw three young Kiwi talents—Ryan Watson, Ryan Lee, and Luke Flowerdew—play pivotal roles in the Phoenix’s historic win. Flowerdew, a 19-year-old striker from the Phoenix academy, scored the match-winning goal in the 49th minute, capitalizing on a mistake by Wrexham’s first-choice goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo. The goal sent the 25,399-strong crowd into a frenzy, marking a career-defining moment for the young forward.

Phoenix coach Giancarlo Italiano made a bold move by including eight players under the age of 21 in his starting XI. He even went younger in the second half, bringing on several academy players and showing a remarkable level of confidence in his young squad. The academy players, who have been playing through the winter in the Central League, proved their mettle on the grand stage, outlasting the more experienced Wrexham side.

The match was not without its moments of tension. Wrexham, backed by Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob Mac, were expected to be strong favorites, with bookmakers giving them a $15 underdog status. Despite dominating possession and creating several chances, Wrexham were unable to convert their opportunities, and the Phoenix’s young squad capitalized on their mistakes.

Wrexham striker Ollie Palmer had a goal disallowed in the 80th minute after a controversial handball decision, which left him visibly frustrated. Meanwhile, the Phoenix showed signs of rustiness in the first half, with goalkeeper Josh Oluwayemi nearly gift-wrapping a goal for Wrexham with a misplaced pass.

Despite the challenges, the Phoenix held their nerve and secured a memorable win, adding to their list of notable victories against touring teams. The result is a testament to the growing strength of New Zealand football and the potential of its young academy players.

Looking ahead, the Phoenix will face Perth Glory in the Australia Cup round of 32 next Sunday, while Wrexham will return home to prepare for their Championship opener against Southampton on August 9. This match was not just a win for the Phoenix—it was a statement of intent from New Zealand’s footballing future.