The clash
Melbourne City will be eager to extend their unbeaten start to the season to five matches when they host Melbourne Victory in a massive Melbourne Derby at ABD Stadium on Thursday 12 December.
In their first clash in Melbourne, City will be full of confidence following their vital 2-1 win over reigning champions Sydney FC at Cromer Park in Sydney in Round 4.
Emily van Egmond latched onto Milica Mijatovic’s assist with a perfectly timed first-time finish to open the scoring in the first few minutes, before the hosts equalised through American import Sofia Huerta in the closing stages of the first period.
As Sydney pressed hard in the opening stages of the second half, City’s defence held firm to deny the hosts. Perseverance would prevail for Rado Vidosic’s side as Mijatovic fired home the winner with a brilliant strike when she met Ellie Carpeneter’s dangerous cross to secure a huge three points for the visitors.
Despite their unbeaten start to the season and an impressive win over last season’s champions, Vidosic’s side face a tough test in Round 5, taking on archrivals Melbourne Victory.
Victory played out an impressive 1-1 draw with ladder leaders Western Sydney Wanderers in Round 4. Haley Hanson opened the scoring in the eighth minute at Latrobe City Stadium before American star Lynn Williams equalised in the second half for the Wanderers.
With one win, one draw and one loss, the reigning premiers have had mixed start to their 2019/20 season.
If history is anything to go by, we’re set for a tough battle between two rivals who are eager to secure the city’s bragging rights.
What was said
Melbourne City FC Head Coach Rado Vidosic said:
“We’re coming off an important win but the focus is now on Melbourne Victory. They’re a tough team to face and we know that we’ll need to be at our best. The team is looking forward to playing in Melbourne and we can’t wait to play in front of our home fans.”
Team news
A midfield star returns. See our full Team News here.
Where to watch?
Thursday night’s clash will be broadcast live on FOX Sports, Kayo and the MyFootball Live App.
Where and when?
City host Melbourne Victory at ABD Stadium on Thursday 12 December, kick off 7:30pm, get your tickets here!
