14 Isuzu UTE A-League Players Selected for New Zealand U20s, Featuring 7 Prominent Wellington Phoenix Talents

Players from the Isuzu UTE A-League constitute over half of New Zealand’s Under-20 team for the upcoming international friendlies against Chile.

Out of the 21-player squad that will face 2025 FIFA U20 World Cup hosts Chile in Santiago on June 5 and June 8, 14 hail from A-League clubs.

The Wellington Phoenix feature seven players in the lineup, including 16-year-old Luke Brooke-Smith, the youngest member of the squad following a standout season. Auckland FC have five players represented, while Western United contributes two to the selection.

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Harry Casci from Western United is making his debut selection for New Zealand.

The 14 players affiliated with the Isuzu UTE A-League in the U20 squad represent three clubs:

Auckland FC: Adama Coulibaly, Finn McKenlay, Oliver Middleton, James Mitchell, Codey Phoenix
Wellington Phoenix: Luke Brooke-Smith, Fergus Gillion, Lukas Kelly-Heald, Xuan Loke, Gabriel Sloane-Rodrigues, Jayden Smith, Luke Supyk
Western United: Harry Casci, Luka Coveny

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“With the FIFA U-20 World Cup looming, it’s crucial for us to spend time together, so bringing this group together to face the World Cup hosts on their turf is invaluable,” stated head coach Chris Greenacre.

“Competing with sides outside the OFC is essential for preparing for September’s challenges, and Chile’s style of play will provide a formidable test for us.”

“This squad is incredibly promising, with many having played significant roles in the FIFA U-20 World Cup qualifiers, and others are joining us for the first time or moving up from previous levels. I’m eager to get into camp and start preparations.”