Competitive football returns for the Western Sydney Wanderers this week with a Hahn Australia Cup Round of 32 clash away to Peninsula Power set to launch their 2025/26 campaign.
The fixture at A J Kelly Park will be the Wanderers’ first competitive outing of the new season and provides an early opportunity to see a blend of returning stars and fresh faces in action.
Notably back in Red & Black are captain Lawrence Thomas, midfield engine Josh Brillante, attackers Brandon Borrello and Bozhidar Kraev, and exciting young prospects like Alex Bonetig and Anthony Pantazopoulos.
The squad has also been strengthened by several off-season signings, including experienced forward Kosta Barbarouses, striker Alou Koul, midfield anchor Steven Ugarkovic and defender Phillip Cancar.
Their opponents, Peninsula Power, are no strangers to the national stage, making their fifth appearance in the Australia Cup final rounds.
Based in Redcliffe, the Power enjoyed their best run in 2022 when they reached the Quarter Finals and will be looking to make another deep run this year under head coach Aaron Phillip.
Peninsula booked their spot in the Round of 32 with an eye-catching campaign that saw them score 21 goals in four matches. After opening with a 4-1 win over Logan Metro, they stunned Brisbane Knights 11-2, then knocked off Queensland leaders Queensland Lions 3-1.
Their ticket to the national draw was sealed with a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Marlin Coast Rangers.
This match will mark the first-ever meeting between the two sides. Peninsula were knocked out by A-Leagues side Wellington Phoenix in the Round of 32 last year and will be eager to claim a major scalp on home turf this time around.
For the Wanderers, it’s a valuable opportunity to hit the ground running, integrate new signings, and begin the new season on a strong note in a competition where they’ve twice reached the Semi Finals.
Match Details
Peninsula Power v Western Sydney Wanderers
Date: 22 July 2025
Time: 7:30 pm (AEST)
Venue: AJ Kelly Park
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