Chelsea Women to face Auckland FC in Oceania pre-season tour

Chelsea Women will face an Auckland FC Women’s Invitational XI at Eden Park on Saturday, August 8, 2026, as part of their Oceania pre-season tour. The match serves as preparation for the English champions ahead of their 2026-27 championship defence campaign.

Chelsea’s 28-player touring squad includes prominent internationals such as Hannah Hampton, Lucy Bronze, Keira Walsh, Lauren James, Erin Cuthbert, Naomi Girma, and Katie McCabe. The Auckland FC invitational side is coached by former Football Ferns goalkeeper Jenny Bindon and features nine past or present Ferns players alongside American guest players and local club representatives. The fixture provides competitive experience for Auckland as they prepare for their 2027-28 Women’s A-League debut.