Coronavirus: New Zealand suspends its football and awards the championship to Auckland

The New Zealand Football Federation put an end to the ocean nation's Premier League due to the coronavirus pandemic and the danger this poses for soccer players and fans. “Auckland City, leader with 37 points, is declared champion, which gives it a place in the next edition of the OFC Champions League“, announced on its official website the competition, which claimed to have agreed on the decision” with clubs and the government's medical council. “

Auckland City thus added the 11th Premiership of its history, which came under the baton of the Spanish José Manuel Figueira and with Eñaut Zubikarai, Angel Berlanga Y Albert Riera in the template. Despite being benefited by the resolution Ivan Vukisch, president of the New Zealand entity, declared feeling “disappointed”. “No one wanted the season to end this way. Team Wellington was very close and Waitakere United, Eastern Suburbs AFC, Tasman United, Hamilton Wanderers and Southern United were fighting for a 'play-off' spot,” said the manager.

The 'Navy Blues', who were awarded the Charity cup just a few days ago after defeating Eastern Suburbs 0-2, they were leaders, although only three points separated them from second place. At the time of suspension, two games remain for the end of the regular season. If everything had continued normally, the play-offs for the title would have been played later. Auckland was already affected by the suspension of the OFC Champions League, postponed until May 6.