Western Sydney Wanderers are set to return to CommBank Stadium this Friday night for a blockbuster Isuzu UTE A-League Double Header, with the Women’s team kicking off the action before the Men’s side faces Wellington Phoenix.
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The evening will also celebrate Multicultural Round, shining a spotlight on the incredible diversity of Western Sydney and giving fans the chance to enjoy cultural performances, activations, and more throughout the night.
For the Wanderers, Friday presents a crucial opportunity to turn strong performances into results.
The Men’s team come off a gritty 1-1 draw with Melbourne City midweek, with Bozhidar Kraev’s late header securing a vital point and highlighting the squad’s resilience. While the team has shown structure and intensity, the challenge now lies in converting chances into goals and climbing the Isuzu UTE A-League table.
Midfielder Steven Ugarkovic says the team is fully aware of the challenge ahead, but confident in their ability to respond quickly after a short turnaround.
“We know the position we’re in is tough, but it’s another game,” Ugarkovic said.
“It’s a short turnaround, which is always good as a footballer – you get to go out there and hopefully get three points. The boys have been good. We’re just focusing on what we can control and we go from there.”
The Phoenix arrive in Sydney following a 3-2 loss to Melbourne Victory at Sky Stadium, a game that showcased their attacking quality and the threat posed by their Kiwi internationals.
Despite that defeat, they remain a dangerous side capable of moments of brilliance, making Friday night’s clash a test for the Wanderers’ defence and attacking efficiency.
Ugarkovic says the key for the Red & Black will be collective accountability.
“I think we’re doing everything right, and then in the final third we’ve just got to put it in the back of the net,” he said.
“It falls on everyone – not just the front line. Whether it’s a defender, a midfielder, a tackle – it’s up to everyone. We just have to win games and build momentum, because a few wins in a row in this league can do a lot for you on the table.”
With the season at a critical stage, Ugarkovic described the team’s mentality as “do or die.”
“We go out there every game wanting to score and win, but at the moment it has to be done,” he said. “There’s no more second chances. We just have to go out there and do it.”
The Wanderers will also be buoyed by the support of their members and fans as they aim to make a statement at home.
“Just keep supporting us,” Ugarkovic said.
“I know it’s tough, football goes up and down and can change overnight. The more support we have, the better. We love it and we love to give back. We’re not happy with ourselves and what we’ve given back to the fans lately, and we’d love to put our best foot forward for them and for ourselves and move forward.”
With the Women’s team kicking off proceedings, Multicultural Round adding colour and energy, and three points on the line, CommBank Stadium promises a night of high-stakes football and celebration.
The Wanderers know what’s at stake and under the lights on Friday, they’ll be determined to deliver.
