KEY POINTS:
International flair adds to what is already shaping as a tantalising season opener between Auckland City and Waitakere United tomorrow.
While it is unfortunate both teams go into such an important Oceania Champions League game with so little recent match play, that, in many ways only adds to the anticipation of the 19th clash of the perennial rivals.
Coaches Colin Tuaa (City) and Chris Milicich (United) have been busy in the off-season signing players they feel will bolster their chances with Milicich in particular seeking to fashion a squad capable of performing creditably when they step out at Fifa's World Club Cup in Japan next month.
City, who have lost only four of their 18 battles with United since 2004, will relish not only home advantage but the return to the renovated Kiwitea St ground which is in superb condition.
"It is a crucial game for both sides," said Tuaa. "We are very keen to win, obviously. The players have worked very hard and are fired up. I won't name the starting XI until after we have trained on Saturday but there are a few options.
"We have three or four new players including Xavi Roca who has settled in well. He has made a big impact and is a bit of a character which has been good for the other players."
Korean midfielder Ki-Hyung Lee has, according to Tuaa, taken time to get up to speed following a break at the end of last season but he, like the rest, is available for selection.
Tuaa also has Solomon Islanders Alick Maemae and Nelson Sale on call along with American Matt Friel.
One of the keenest battles will be for the goalkeeping spot with Ross Nicholson and Jacob Spoonley in the frame.
Milicich too has to make some calls. He is still awaiting confirmation Fijian youngster Roy Krishna will be back. He must also decide whether Brazilian newcomer Adriano is ready to play after a lengthy break.
"We have lost a little experience with Neil Sykes (injured) and Darren Bazeley (retired) unavailable but we still have a pretty strong squad," said Milicich. "I'm looking forward to going back to Kiwitea St. It is a good surface to play on and I love the atmosphere.
"It is an important game for us as we prepare for Japan. Those players who want to go - and only 23 of the 30 will make it - have to show me they want to be part of what is our biggest challenge of the season."
O-League:
* Group A, first round.
* Auckland City v Waitakere United.
* Kiwitea St, Sandringham, 3pm tomorrow.
* Referee: Peter O'Leary.
