Coach Ramon Tribulietx yesterday named a full-strength squad for their fifth tilt at the tournament, which will begin - and possibly end - with a match against Moroccan champions Raja Casablanca in Agadir.
Auckland have played off with the local club at the past two editions - Japanese sides Sanfrecce Hiroshima and Kashiwa Reysol - and defeat in both matches has seen them unable to advance to the tournament proper.
Raja have a fine history, having won Africa's Champions League on three occasions, and they will present a tough obstacle for Oceania's best in their bid to emulate their quarter-finals trip four years ago.
Before then, though, Auckland have to take care of business at home against a Waitakere side on top of the league after three straight wins.
The West Aucklanders have shown few ill effects from the departure of key personnel in the offseason, and a victory on enemy territory will open a five-point gap between the rivals.
Much of the early promise in their quest for a fifth straight title has come from Scottish signing Jordan Lowdon, who has helped fill the void left by the defection of de Vries and Krishna.
The left winger has been at the heart of everything good for Waitakere so far this campaign, scoring twice in his side's perfect record. Waitakere's defence hasn't been bad, either, conceding just once from three games, a stoppage-time penalty.
That record will be sorely tested by a pair of erstwhile players, now foes.
Elsewhere, Wanderers SC hosts WaiBOP United at North Harbour Stadium tomorrow, with the youngsters seeking the second win of their history.
APNZ
