Head coach Alen Stajcic has named his extended squad for Saturday afternoon’s clash against Auckland FC.
A trip across the Tasman could mark a defining moment for Alen Stajcic and his Western Sydney Wanderers.
A win over Auckland FC this weekend wouldn’t just be three points – it would be a full-circle triumph for a side that has been building momentum under Stajcic’s leadership.
However, taking down the league leaders will be no small feat. Auckland’s debut season has been nothing short of remarkable.
The expansion side has set the standard, suffering just two defeats all season and emerging as frontrunners for the minor premiership – an achievement not seen from a new club since the Wanderers themselves made history in 2012/13.
Their dominance is built on defensive resilience. Auckland has conceded just 20 goals all season, the joint-best record in the league, and started the campaign with an incredible five consecutive clean sheets.
Even though their backline has shown signs of vulnerability in recent weeks – shipping four goals to Adelaide and two to the Mariners – they remain a formidable unit.
Their current form underlines their credentials. Auckland is unbeaten in 11 matches, last tasting defeat on January 11. While three of their last four games have ended in draws, they reasserted their authority last weekend with a 2-0 win over Brisbane, courtesy of goals from Nando Pijnaker and captain Hiroki Sakai.
For the Wanderers, this matchup presents both a challenge and an opportunity.
Western Sydney boasts the league’s most potent attack, with 49 goals to their name. Their firepower will be crucial in breaking down Auckland’s defensive wall – especially after being unlucky not to do so in the reverse fixture.
A victory in New Zealand would not only serve as a major statement but also reinforce Stajcic’s belief that his side can challenge the competition’s very best. The stage is set for a clash that could shape the season’s final stretch.
Western Sydney Wanderers FC: 2.Gab CLEUR, 3.Alex GERSBACH, 4.Alex BONETIG, 6.Mohamed AL TAAY, 7.Zac SAPSFORD, 9.Marcus ANTONSSON, 13.Dean PELEKANOS, 14.Nicolas MILANOVIC, 17.Jarrod CARLUCCIO, 18.Oscar PRIESTMAN, 19.Jack CLISBY, 20.Lawrence THOMAS (GK), 21.Aydan HAMMOND, 22.Anthony PANTAZOPOULOUS, 23.Bozhidar KRAEV, 25.Joshua BRILLANTE, 26.Brandon BORRELLO, 28.Josh Laws, 30.Jordan HOLMES (GK), 64.Juan MATA.
Ins: 6.Mohamed AL TAAY (returns from international duty), 21.Aydan HAMMOND (promoted)
Outs: N/A
Unavailable: 5.Dylan SCICLUNA (injured), 8.Jeong TAE-WOOK (injured)
