The Western Sydney Wanderers NPL 1 side travel to Edensor Park this weekend looking to build on their emphatic Sydney Derby victory when they take on Sydney United 58 at the Sydney United Sports Centre.
The Wanderers produced a statement performance last round, dismantling Sydney FC 4-0 in a dominant display built on early intensity, clinical finishing and defensive organisation. The result marked their first win of the campaign and provided the perfect response following the opening-round setback.
Standing in their way this weekend is a Sydney United 58 outfit that has begun the season strongly, claiming back-to-back victories to sit among the early pace-setters in NPL NSW. Their most recent win came in a gritty 2-1 triumph over Sutherland Sharks, a match in which they were reduced to ten men but showed resilience to hold on for all three points.
However, United will be without key defender Adrian Vlastelica, who was shown a red card in that clash against the Sharks and will serve a suspension this weekend. His absence removes a significant leadership presence from the heart of their defence and could present opportunities for the Wanderers’ attacking unit to exploit.
Despite that setback, United remain a disciplined and well-structured side, particularly strong in defensive organisation and transitional moments. Playing at home in front of their supporters will only add to their confidence as they look to maintain their unbeaten start.
The Key Decider: Patience in Attack
With Sydney United 58 unlikely to overcommit and more than comfortable defending in a compact, organised block, the movement of Awan Lual and Alaat Abdul-Rahman will be crucial to unlocking the contest.
Against a side that isn’t afraid to sit deep and protect central areas, it’s not just about pace, it’s about timing and intelligence. Lual’s ability to stretch the backline with sharp diagonal runs in behind can force United’s defenders to turn and disrupt their shape, while Abdul-Rahman’s movement between the lines and willingness to attack the half-spaces can create the pockets needed to break down a low block.
If the pair can synchronise their runs, one pinning, one peeling off shoulders, the Wanderers can create the separation required to turn patient build-up into genuine goal-scoring opportunities.
For the Wanderers, the other challenge will be backing up last week’s intensity and maintaining the same sharpness away from home. Their pressing game and attacking combinations proved too much for Sydney FC, and replicating that cohesion will be crucial against a United side that thrives in tight contests.
Defensively, the Wanderers will also need to remain composed, particularly in managing United’s direct phases and set-piece threats. Discipline and game management, especially in what is expected to be a fiery local clash, could ultimately determine the outcome.
A victory would see the Wanderers continue their climb up the ladder and further underline the belief building within the squad early in the 2026 campaign.
NPL NSW Round 3
Sydney United 58 v Western Sydney Wanderers
Sunday 22 February, 5:00pm
Sydney United Sports Centre
