Sam Cosgrove to miss first two Auckland FC matches due to suspension

Auckland FC striker Sam Cosgrove will miss the first two matches of the 2026/27 A-League Men season following a two-game suspension. The Golden Boot winner received a straight red card during a FIFA Intercontinental Cup match against Saudi Arabian club Al-Ahli in Jeddah.

The dismissal occurred in the 87th minute of the match after Cosgrove committed a studs-up challenge on midfielder Valentin Atangana. The suspension will sideline the Englishman for Auckland’s season opener against Melbourne City on October 17 and their subsequent match against Western Sydney Wanderers.

New Auckland head coach Pedro Moreira will have to navigate the opening fortnight without the striker, who scored 12 league goals during the club’s recent championship campaign. Cosgrove is expected to be eligible for selection again on October 30 for the match against Brisbane Roar.