Melbourne City is set to return home for the first time this season, hosting Central Coast Mariners in what promises to be an action-packed Round 2 fixture of the 2025/26 Ninja A-League Women’s campaign.
Saturday afternoon marks City’s home opener, and fans won’t want to miss what’s shaping up to be a mouth-watering clash between last season’s Premiers and Champions.
City enters the contest off the back of a spirited 2–2 draw away to Sydney FC in Round 1, while the Mariners will be looking to continue their strong start to the season after an impressive 3-0 win over Adelaide United.
Home opener at ctrl:cyber Pitch
After beginning the season on the road, Saturday presents the perfect opportunity for City fans to head to ctrl:cyber Pitch and get behind their side in the first home game of the new campaign.
City has enjoyed a formidable record at home in recent seasons, and Michael Matricciani’s squad will be eager to continue their strong run at home, starting with a blockbuster showdown against the reigning Champions.
If history is anything to go by, we’re set for an entertaining clash between two sides who always face off in a tight contest.
Heavyweight clash: Premiers v Champions
This isn’t just another Round 2 fixture, it’s the first meeting between last season’s best.
City, who are back-to-back Premiers Plate winners after a formidable Invincibles campaign, will take on a Mariners outfit brimming with confidence following last season’s Grand Final triumph.
Both teams play high-tempo, attacking football and possess star quality across the pitch, setting the stage for one of the early blockbusters of the 2025/26 season. It’s a must-watch as both sides will look to assert themselves early in the campaign.
It’s also City’s final A-League Women’s fixture before jetting off for the AFC Women’s Champions League Group Stage in Vietnam. So don’t miss the chance to catch the team in action before they depart.
Fresh faces on home turf
City fans got their first glimpse of several exciting new signings in last week’s season opener, and Saturday brings the chance to see them live in action for the first time.
Dan Turner brought composure and experience at the back on debut, while Aideen Keane showcased her attacking quality with her first goal for the Club. Nigerian international Chinaza Uchendu also made her debut off the bench, as did young gun Danella Butrus.
Adding further intrigue is the potential debut of Deven Jackson, who returns from international duty with New Zealand and is a chance to make her first appearance in City colours.
With a blend of youth, international experience and attacking flair, this new-look City squad is already showing plenty of promise.
Fixture Details
Ninja A-League Women: Round 2
Melbourne City FC v Central Coast Mariners
Saturday 8 November
3:00pm kick-off
ctrl:cyber Pitch
Watch live on 10Play and Paramount+
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