The Oceania Champions League kicks off in Fiji this weekend, with Auckland City chasing a fifth consecutive title.
Auckland City celebrate beating Amicale FC in the final of the 2014 Oceania Champions League. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
But rival clubs have recruited heavily in an attempt to break their winning run.
Vinnie Wylie reports.
Auckland City begin their title defence this afternoon against Fijian champions Suva, who are competing in the Champions League for the first time.
2014 runners-up Amicale FC from Vanuatu have splashed the cash on players from Europe, South America and the Pacific in an effort to go one step better, and take on debutants Western United from Solomon Islands this evening.
O-League Preliminary winners Lupe Ole Soaga make their tournament debut in against Pirae from Tahiti while Ba host another newcomer in New Caledonia's FC Gaitcha.
The opening rounds concludes on Sunday with PNG champions Hekari United up against Vanuatu's Tafea, who had their build-up disrupted by Cyclone Pam.
Meanwhile Team Wellington make their tournament debut against Tahiti's AS Tefana.
The overall winner will represent Oceania at the FIFA Club World Cup later in the year.
