This week’s A-League action promises to feel different, with clubs moving quickly to strengthen key areas following the reopening of the transfer window on January 14. As a result, a mix of new signings and familiar faces are set to feature across the country, adding fresh intrigue to the upcoming round.
Catch the matches live on SPOTV NOW.
View this post on Instagram
Melbourne City vs Auckland FC
January 16 @ 4:35PM (GMT+8)
All eyes are on Ryan Teague, who has returned to the A-League after joining Melbourne City on loan from Belgian side KV Mechelen. The 23-year-old midfielder, a Socceroos international with Malaysian heritage, is in line to make his debut against the current league leaders. City will hope Teague’s familiarity with the league allows him to settle quickly as they look to bounce back from last week’s defeat to Newcastle Jets.
View this post on Instagram
Perth Glory vs Brisbane Roar
January 16 @ 6:45PM (GMT+8)
Perth host Brisbane with an opportunity to leapfrog their visitors and move into the top six, which did not appear possible earlier in the campaign. Adam Griffiths has overseen a notable upturn in form since replacing David Zdrilic, while the Roar side arrive under pressure after losing their last three matches including a 2-0 loss to Auckland.
Western Sydney Wanderers vs Newcastle Jets
January 17 @ 2:00PM (GMT+8)
Both sides come into the fixture on confidence-boosting results against Melbourne opponents – Western Sydney snapped a lengthy winless run by defeating Victory, while Newcastle continued their push towards the top four with a win over City. The contest shapes as a test of momentum, whether the Wanderers can build on their breakthrough win or the Jets can extend their strong run of form, especially after recruiting Zach Clough from Malaysian side Selangor.
Central Coast Mariners vs Macarthur
January 17 @ 3:00PM (GMT+8)
Both teams arrive at Polytec Stadium looking to respond after heavy 3-0 defeats last week. Warren Moon’s first game as permanent head coach of Central Coast did not go well as they were thumped by Perth Glory, while Macarthur saw their unbeaten run since November ended by Sydney FC.
Adelaide United vs Melbourne Victory
January 17 @ 4:35PM (GMT+8)
Juan Mata and Co. ran out 2-1 winners the last time the Original Rivalry fixture took place in December, a result that sparked a four-game winning streak. Following a surprise loss to Western Sydney, Victory should fancy themselves to do it again, particularly with Adelaide still missing key players including Luka Jovanovic, Yaya Dukuly and Ethan Alagich.
Sydney FC vs Wellington Phoenix
January 18 @ 2:00PM (GMT+8)
After concluding a six-game road stretch with a commanding 3-0 win over Macarthur, Sydney FC return to Allianz Stadium for the first time this season. The Sky Blues began the campaign playing home matches at Leichhardt Oval while their primary venue underwent maintenance.
The occasion could provide added motivation for Sydney against the New Zealand side, who arrive having slipped further down the table following a 2–2 draw with Adelaide United. With the league’s second-worst defensive record, the Phoenix are expected to call upon Bill Tuiloma, who became available after the transfer window opened midweek, while Singaporean-born Xuan Loke is also in contention after recent bench appearances.
