ALM PREVIEW: Macarthur v City

Aurelio Vidmar’s men will look to bounce back and secure a crucial three points on the road after suffering their first defeat of 2025 last weekend.

City heads into the second of three consecutive away fixtures determined to reclaim momentum against a hungry Macarthur side in Campbelltown.

Here’s what to watch for ahead of Saturday night’s clash:

EXPERIENCE RETURNING TO THE MIX

City’s attacking unit is set to receive a major boost, with Mathew Leckie expected to play a more significant role following his successful return from a hamstring injury last weekend.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Melbourne City FC (@melbournecity)

Leckie featured for 20 minutes off the bench and will be looking to make an even bigger impact this time around.

Adding to the good news, Marco Tilio is also set to return to the squad after recovering from his own hamstring injury. Tilio hasn’t played since Round 3 but has impressed on the training pitch and is ready to rejoin the fold.

While neither player is expected to start, their experience and quality will be invaluable as City looks to rebound strongly.

STARTING A NEW STREAK

City’s impressive seven-game unbeaten run (4 wins, 3 draws) came to an abrupt end last weekend with a disappointing 3-0 loss away to Auckland.

It marked our first loss outside of Melbourne this season, after securing three wins and a draw in the first four trips outside of our home state.

With the top half of the table tightly contested, it’s vital that City gets back on track and avoids losing ground in the race for finals positions and a potential Premiers Plate.

With a bye coming up next weekend, the team can leave everything on the pitch in pursuit of a big three points, knowing there’s a well-earned break ahead.

MAINTAINING A POSITIVE RECORD

City boasts a strong historical record against Macarthur, losing just once in 10 previous meetings (5 wins, 3 draws).

However, that lone loss came the last time these sides met in Campbelltown, with City falling 2-0 in March last year.

Macarthur will be equally hungry for a result, coming off a frustrating 2-1 loss to Wellington Phoenix on Monday despite dominating much of the contest.

A win for City could see us rise to second on the ladder, while a victory for Macarthur would allow the Bulls to leapfrog us on the table.

With plenty on the line, both teams are expected to come out firing in this crucial fixture.