We have a new leader in the A-League as the Newcastle winning streak powers on, taking the Jets to the top of the table. Auckland FC and Sydney FC meet in a blockbuster clash between second and third on the table, headlining Round 16’s slate! Check out our best bet's for this weekend's action below.
A-League 2025-26: Round 16 Preview & Betting Tips
Auckland FC vs Sydney FC
Go Media Stadium, Saturday 7th February, 3:00pm AEDT
Saturday’s slate kicks off with one of the biggest games of the season, as Sydney FC travel across the ditch to face Auckland FC. Both of these sides have occupied the top two spots for the majority of the season, however they have struggled for form in recent weeks. Sydney FC ended a two game losing streak with a 4-1 win in the Sydney Derby, while Auckland FC have only won one of their last six games. It’s been the first time in their history that they’ve struggled, and they are in desperate need of a win to turn things around.
Auckland’s struggles have come from a major drop off defensively, 10 goals in their last six games, including conceding six in their last three games. In comparison, across their first nine games they conceded only 7 goals. For their struggles they are still the second best defence in the league, but they are coming up against the best defensive side in the A-League in Sydney FC.
The two clubs have near identical statistical profiles, the Sky Blues have scored 22 goals and conceded 14, Auckland have scored 22 and conceded 17. Both clubs are on 25 points and have struggled for form over the last month. This looms as a season defining game for both clubs, so expect both teams to set up to play a tight, defensive brand of football. Auckland have played in four draws, the second most in the league and given the high stakes nature of the match, expect plenty of numbers behind the ball.
Western Sydney vs Melbourne City
CommBank Stadium, Saturday 7th February, 7:35pm AEDT
Melbourne City travel to Sydney clinging on to a spot in the top six with just two points separating City from 10th placed Wellington. City come into this clash having won just one of their last three games after a 2-2 draw against Wellington. The Wanderers have fallen to the bottom of the league after copping a 4-1 hiding in the Sydney Derby, dominated all in facets of the game after the opening minute.
The Wanderers' struggles this season aren’t difficult to find, ranking as the lowest scoring team in the league. Western Sydney have scored only 12 goals in 15 games, which simply doesn’t cut it in such a high scoring competition like the A-League. The Wanderers have only scored multiple goals on three occasions, which makes it impossible to be competitive.
Fortunately for Western Sydney, Melbourne City have struggled in the front third as well having scored 18 goals, ranked 10th in the league. There’s a lot at stake for City given their precarious position on the ladder, sitting only two points clear of tenth, however if results go their way they could be as high as fourth by the end of the round. Commbank Stadium hasn’t been a happy hunting ground for the Wanderers, who have only won three of their eight games at home this season. Melbourne City will be far too good for a struggling Wanderers outfit.
Melbourne City to Win
$2.90 (1 Unit)
Adelaide United vs Newcastle Jets
Coopers Stadium, Sunday 8th February, 5:00pm AEDT
One of the most exciting games of the weekend sees fifth placed Adelaide United hosting the league leading Newcastle Jets. The Jets are flying high as they have ridden their hot streak to the top of the table, winning five straight games, and seven of their last eight games. Their attacking brand has been the envy of the competition, scoring a league high 34 goals - 10 more than the next best side, ironically which is Adelaide United.
Newcastle have been unstoppable of late, with a 10-2 aggregate scoreline across their last two games. The Jets have scored 20 goals across their last seven games, and have been playing with some serious pace, that is giving opposing sides plenty of headaches. Adelaide United’s defence has been vulnerable at times this season, conceding the third most goals in the competition (23).
Adelaide United have been in good form having been unbeaten in their last four games, and they have the best home record in the A-League this season, however they’re coming up against the best side in the league that has the best away record in the competition. Mark Milligan’s side is running red hot at the moment and it’s impossible to pick against them at the moment, with the Jets to take a win in a thrilling contest in South Australia.
Newcastle to Win
$2.25 (1 Unit)
