Victory Eye Statement Win Against League-Leading Auckland FC

MELBOURNE, Australia (PS) — Melbourne Victory return to AAMI Park on Saturday, April 19, with a top-six spot firmly in their grasp and momentum on their side. But standing in their way? None other than league-leaders Auckland FC in a blockbuster Round 27 encounter of the Isuzu UTE A-League Men’s competition.

Fresh off a hard-fought 3-2 road win over Wellington Phoenix, Victory now set their sights on securing a home win that could solidify their Finals credentials—and potentially shake up the top of the ladder.

Their previous encounter with Auckland ended in a 0-0 stalemate at Go Media Stadium, marking the first-ever clash between the two clubs. This time, the stakes are significantly higher.

Victory’s Late Surge

Tony Popovic’s side has found form at the right time. Back-to-back goal-laden wins have lifted Victory six points clear of seventh-placed Adelaide United, while also placing them just four points behind cross-town rivals Melbourne City in second.

The win in Wellington was particularly telling. A team that had previously struggled to close out matches held firm after taking a 3-1 lead early in the second half.

Nishan Velupillay marked his 100th A-League appearance with a goal and an assist, extending his scoring streak to six consecutive matches. The 22-year-old winger has emerged as one of Victory’s most consistent attacking threats.

Meanwhile, Greek striker Nikos Vergos reminded fans of his quality, capping a solo run with a stunning finish—his 10th goal of the season across all competitions. It was his first start in over a month and a timely return to form.

“We’ve built some belief in recent weeks,” said Popovic. “Now we face the ultimate test against the best team in the league.”

Round 27 Squad:

Melbourne Victory FC:

1. Mitch Langerak, 3. Adama Traore, 4. Lachlan Jackson, 5. Brendan Hamill, 6. Ryan Teague, 7. Daniel Arzani, 8. Zinedine Machach, 9. Nikolaos Vergos, 10. Bruno Fornaroli, 14. Jordi Valadon, 16. Joshua Inserra, 17. Nishan Velupillay, 18. Fabian Monge, 19. Jing Reec, 21. Roderick Miranda, 22. Joshua Rawlins, 23. Alexander Badolato, 25. Jack Duncan, 26. Luka Kolic, 28. Kasey Bos

Ins: Adama Traore, Jing Reec, Luka Kolic (all promoted)
Outs: Reno Piscopo (injured)
Unavailable: None

Auckland’s Form Wobbles at the Finish Line

Led by former Sydney FC boss Steve Corica, Auckland FC have set the league alight in their inaugural A-League campaign. Known for their defensive grit and disciplined structure, the Black Knights have conceded the second-fewest goals in the competition while keeping a joint-league-high in clean sheets.

Japanese international Hiroki Sakai, who boasts 185 appearances for Ligue 1 powerhouse Olympique Marseille, has anchored the backline with trademark composure and leadership.

Yet Auckland’s once-iron grip on the top spot has begun to loosen. With just one win from their last six matches—five of those ending in draws—the Premiership race has tightened. Their lead has now shrunk to just four points with three games remaining.

The clash at AAMI Park is shaping into a litmus test for the expansion club’s resolve under pressure.

“This team has defied expectations all season,” said Corica. “Now it’s about finishing strong.”