Match Preview & Analysis
Melbourne Victory Set to Reignite Season Against Wellington Phoenix
The A-League is heating up as Melbourne Victory prepares to face off against Wellington Phoenix at AAMI Park on Monday, 29 December 2025. With both teams looking to improve their current standing, this match is crucial for their season's trajectory. Melbourne Victory, having experienced a mixed run of form, will be seeking to capitalize on their home advantage and gather momentum. Meanwhile, Wellington Phoenix, amidst their own set of challenges, including several key players missing due to injury or inactivity, will be looking to pull off an upset. The stakes are high, and the intensity is expected to be palpable as these two teams clash in what promises to be an exciting encounter.
Match Details
- Competition: A-League
- Venue: AAMI Park, Melbourne
- Kick-off: 11:00, Monday, 29 December 2025
- Referee: Shaun Evans, Australia
Current Form
Melbourne Victory's recent form has been inconsistent, with their last few matches showcasing a mix of victories and defeats (DLWLLLDWW). Despite this, they have shown flashes of brilliance and resilience, especially in their home games. On the other hand, Wellington Phoenix has also experienced a rollercoaster of results (DWDLLWLLW), indicating that they are capable of pulling off surprise wins but also struggle with consistency. Both teams will be looking to find a stable rhythm in this match.Team News & Predicted Lineups
In terms of team news, Melbourne Victory will be without B. Hamill due to a knee injury, F. Lino, and R. Piscopo, both out with injuries. Despite these absences, Melbourne Victory has the depth to field a competitive lineup. Their predicted XI will likely include their star players, aiming to exploit Wellington Phoenix's defensive vulnerabilities.
Wellington Phoenix faces a more significant challenge with multiple players missing, including D. Edwards (inactive), H. Ishige (injury), N. Mileusnic (injury), J. Oluwayemi (injury), T. Payne (inactive), L. Supyk (injury), and N. Walker (inactive). This plethora of absentees will test the team's bench and tactics. Phoenix will need to rely on their available squad members to step up and fill the gaps if they are to stand any chance against Melbourne Victory.
Head-to-Head
The head-to-head history between Melbourne Victory and Wellington Phoenix suggests a competitive and often closely contested affair. Their last meeting resulted in a 3-2 win for Melbourne Victory, indicating that they have the upper hand in this fixture. However, Wellington Phoenix will be seeking to turn the tables and claim a vital away win.Tactical Analysis
Given the recent forms and team news, the tactical approach for both teams will be crucial. Melbourne Victory might look to exploit Wellington Phoenix's depleted squad through aggressive wingplay, utilizing their wingers to stretch the opposition's defense. On the other hand, Wellington Phoenix, with their limited resources, might adopt a low block defensive strategy, aiming to absorb pressure and catch Melbourne Victory off guard on the counter. The battle between Melbourne's attacking flair and Wellington's defensive resilience will be a key aspect of the match.Match Prediction
Considering the factors at play, including recent form, team news, and head-to-head history, the prediction leans in favor of Melbourne Victory. Despite their inconsistency, they have the firepower and home advantage to overcome Wellington Phoenix. However, given Wellington's ability to spring surprises, a double chance bet on Melbourne Victory or a draw seems like a prudent prediction advice. The final score is forecasted to be in Melbourne Victory's favor, but it will likely be a closely contested match with both teams creating scoring opportunities.Team Form
Melbourne Victory
Last 5: LLDWW
Wellington Phoenix
Last 5: LWLLW
Head to Head
Match Predictions
🏆 Winner: Melbourne Victory (Win or draw)
⚽ Goals: -1.5
🎯 Advice: Double chance : Melbourne Victory or draw