ALM PREVIEW: City v Western United

Melbourne City faces another quick turnaround as we aim to build on a strong start to 2025.

Fresh off an impressive win over Wellington Phoenix on Friday night, we’re now gearing up to host Western United at AAMI Park.

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Here are the key points on the agenda ahead of Tuesday night’s clash:

REPLACING A KEY CONTRIBUTOR

Injuries have unfortunately been a recurring theme this season, and Friday’s match was no exception.

The only downside of an otherwise stellar night was Austrian playmaker Andreas Kuen being forced off late in the first half with a hamstring injury.

Scans have since confirmed Kuen will be sidelined for 6-8 weeks, joining several other key attacking players in the stands.

Kuen has been instrumental this season, leading City in both assists (5) and goal contributions (7).

His absence opens the door for another young talent to step up, with Head Coach Aurelio Vidmar continuing to place trust in the Club’s emerging players.

CONTINUING OUR MOMENTUM

Despite the challenges posed by injuries, the team has shown remarkable resilience, remaining unbeaten in our last five matches.

Tuesday night presents a chance to kick off 2025 with back-to-back wins as we look to maintain our strong form.

A settled defensive line has been the backbone of our success despite the chaos of injuries further up the pitch, providing a stable platform on which to build.

Against Wellington, goals came from unlikely sources, with Harry Politidis and Nathaniel Atkinson finding the net in roles outside their usual positions.

With a youthful attacking lineup set to continue for the next few weeks, every player’s contribution will be crucial as we await the returns of the likes of Mathew Leckie and Marco Tilio.

RIVALRY RENEWED

We’ve enjoyed strong form against Western United in recent seasons, winning six of the last seven meetings.

Tuesday’s clash marks the second encounter this season, with City claiming a 1-0 victory in November, courtesy of Andrew Nabbout’s goal.

Unfortunately, Nabbout’s season was cut short in that same match due to injury.

Western United, however, come into this match brimming with confidence after a run of four consecutive wins.

Their latest outing was nothing short of spectacular, pulling off a dramatic injury-time comeback capped by a 95th-minute bicycle kick to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat.

Tuesday promises to be another thrilling chapter in this crosstown rivalry. Don’t miss it!