The first leg of both A-League semi-finals matchups are in the books and there’s still everything to play for. The second and final legs will take place this weekend, with Melbourne City vs Sydney, followed by Central Coast vs Adelaide. We bring you our full preview and best bets for both fixtures here!
2022-23 A-League: Semi-Finals (2nd Leg) Preview & Betting Tips
Melbourne City vs Sydney FC
Friday May 19th, 7:45pm (AEST)
Sydney did all they could to defend their home ground by forcing a draw in the opening game of this tie. They fell behind early when Mathew Leckie found the back of the net for the visitors in the 18th minute, but held their composure and eventually levelled it up at 1-1 thanks to a 64th minute strike from Adam Le Fondre. The match finished all square and that was a fair result with all things considered.
We now look ahead to the second and final leg of this matchup which will obviously be played in Melbourne. City are currently priced as the odds-on favourites to win this match and that’s no surprise considering they had the far better season of the pair.
City have been nothing short of dominant at home this season where they are yet to lose a game. They picked up 33 points from a possible 39 during the home and away season, which was by far the home record of any team in the competition.
All the stats suggest Sydney are truly up against it on Friday night and I tend to agree. City have been the best team from start to finish and not winning this fixture would be a travesty. I have them winning their way through to yet another A-League Grand Final.
Melbourne City to Win
$1.87 (3 Units)
Central Coast Mariners vs Adelaide United
Saturday May 20th, 7:45pm (AEST)
We predicted a Mariners road win in the first game of this tie and they didn’t disappoint. Despite playing in hostile conditions and falling behind after just four minutes, the Mariners were able to get the better of Adelaide once again. They found the back of the net twice in the first half thanks to strikes from James McGarry and Jason Cummings, which negated Craig Goodwin’s goal and gave them a lead at the half. After the break the Mainers were abler to managed the game well and come away with a valuable win.
Now back on their home deck for the second leg of this tie, it’s no surprise that the Mariners are favourites to win and progress through to the Grand Final. They’ve won all three matchups with the Reds this season and lead the aggregate score 10-2. Furthermore, their only time they’ve played hosts in this matchup this season was at the start of the year when they thumped the Reds 4-0.
Clearly, the Mariners matchup extremely well against Adelaide and that will give them great confidence ahead of Saturday night’s game on home soil. They only need a draw to progress, but I expect them to secure another win and book their place in the big dance.
Central Coast Mariners to Win
$1.95 (1 Unit)
