Wellington Phoenix goalkeeper Josh Oluwayemi has captured widespread consideration on-line following a shocking error that contributed to his staff’s 5-0 defeat in opposition to Auckland FC in an A-League derby at Sky Stadium on Saturday.
The Pricey Blunder
Within the twenty fourth minute, Oluwayemi misjudged a clearance from Auckland’s Jake Girdwood-Reich, launched from roughly 75 meters away. Stepping outdoors his penalty space, the Phoenix No. 1 backpedaled frantically and inadvertently headed the ball into his personal internet, marking one of the vital weird personal objectives in latest Australian soccer historical past.
Oluwayemi discovered himself uncovered once more for Jesse Randall’s second aim, as Auckland surged to a 4-0 halftime lead. Coaches substituted him on the break for Alby Kelly-Heald.
Coach Steps Down Instantly
Supervisor Giancarlo Italiano introduced his resignation through the post-match press convention, efficient instantly. The Australian coach, who spent seven years with the membership—together with as an assistant beneath Ufuk Talay earlier than taking the highest function for the 2023-24 season—guided Phoenix to second place in his debut marketing campaign.
Nevertheless, the staff completed eleventh final season and at the moment holds tenth place, winless of their final 5 outings. Phoenix has now misplaced all six derbies to Auckland beneath Italiano’s tenure.
“To lose 5-0 at residence with the season nonetheless in play is unacceptable. I take full accountability,” Italiano acknowledged. “I’ve tendered my resignation to the membership. It is time for contemporary power to refocus the group.”
He added that his choice to start out Oluwayemi rested on his shoulders, whatever the goalkeeper’s errors. Italiano revealed his frustration at halftime: “I misplaced my cool and instructed the staff that efficiency was unacceptable. I reminded them they have been enjoying for the badge.”
Reflecting on the rivalry, Italiano remarked, “You may’t lose to rivals like that wherever on this planet. It is within the membership’s greatest curiosity to usher in somebody with renewed vigor.” He expressed reduction at lastly getting some relaxation after stepping away.
Wanting Forward
Wellington Phoenix faces Sydney FC, led by former coach Ufuk Talay, at residence subsequent Sunday as they search to rebound.
