The A-League returns from the international break with a massive Round of action for the Easter weekend. Two matches between top six sides headlines a big weekend of football, and we’ve got you covered with our best bets for Round 23 of the A-League below!
A-League 2025-26: Round 23 Preview & Betting Tips
Macarthur vs Newcastle Jets
Campbelltown Sports Stadium, Thursday 2nd April, 7:35pm AEDT
Macarthur return home to kick off Round 23 facing the toughest assignment in the competition, hosting league leaders Newcastle Jets. Macarthur picked up a massive win in their last game, defeating second place Auckland away from home to get their way back into the top six, ending an eight game winless run. Newcastle got back on the winners list with a 2-1 win over Sydney FC thanks to a 93rd minute winner from Ben Gibson. Thanks to Auckland’s loss, Newcastle have regained their four point gap at the top of the table.
Newcastle Jets arrive as the benchmark side of the competition. Sitting top of the ladder and leading the league in goals scored with 46, they’ve built their season on aggressive, high tempo football that overwhelms opponents. Their ability to transition quickly from defence to attack and create chances from multiple phases has made them the most dangerous attacking unit in the league. This will be a massive factor given Macarthur are the second worst defensive side in the league, having conceded 36 goals.
Although there will be renewed optimism around the Bulls after last week’s upset, the reality is that the Jets have won eleven of their last thirteen games, while Macarthur have won one of their last nine. Newcastle are the best away team in the league (8-1-2) while Macarthur are ranked ninth on the home table with just three wins from eleven games. The Jets will run riot in a high scoring outing in Campbelltown.
Newcastle Jets to Win
$2.45 (2 Units)
Adelaide United vs Auckland FC
Coopers Stadium, Friday 3rd April, 7:35pm AEDT
The game of the round takes place in the city of churches on Friday as Adelaide United host Auckland FC. After knocking off the league leading Jets in Round 21, in what shapes as one of the most evenly balanced contests of Round 22. Adelaide have built their season around attacking output, sitting as the second most prolific team in the league (39 goals) and consistently creating high quality chances through wide play and quick movement in their front third. Their ability to play on the front foot, particularly at home, makes them a difficult side to contain.
Auckland FC come into this game as arguably the most balanced team in the competition. Auckland rank equal first for fewest goals conceded (23) and rank fourth fourth for goals scored (37). Although their attacking game has progressed a long way this season, Auckland will look to create a controlled game that is on the slower side, to be able counteract the Reds attacking prowess.
It’s a clash of styles, This matchup shapes as a clash of styles. Adelaide will look to push the tempo and create volume in the final third. Auckland will look to control space, limit transitions and strike when openings appear. If Adelaide can impose themselves early, they can dictate terms with their fast paced ball movement, which will cause Auckland some challenges. The arm wrestle will be tough between two of the best teams in the league, and it will end all square in Adelaide.
Melbourne Victory vs Wellington Phoenix
AAMI Park, Sunday 5th April, 3:00pm AEST
Wellington Phoenix travel to Melbourne looking to extend their winning streak to three games and continue their push towards the top six to take on the Victory. Melbourne Victory have jumped into third place on the back of consecutive 4-1 wins over Macarthur and the Mariners. Victory are on a seven game unbeaten streak, which started with a 3-2 win over Wellington. With Adelaide United playing Auckland, the Victory have a golden opportunity to firmly establish themselves in the top three.
Back to back wins has the Phoenix within one point of the top six, with their finals hopes now well and truly alive. Wellington Phoenix arrive as a side capable of competing but still searching for consistency, which they haven’t been able to find this season. The Phoenix rank in the top five for goals scored this season, but are the worst defensive side in the league. The gap between their best and worst is an issue at the moment and they need to fix it if they are to play finals.
Melbourne have been able to expose Wellington’s inconsistencies over the past few seasons, winning four straight games against Wellington. The Victory have had their way against the Phoenix defence, scoring 11 goals in their last three games against Wellington. The Victory are the best home team in the league with a 6-3-2 record at AAMI Park, and they will give the Phoenix a big reality check on Easter Sunday.
Melbourne Victory -1
$2.30 (1 Unit)
