We’re set for a thrilling conclusion to the Semi Finals of the 2025-26 A-League season as both games are tied at 1-1 heading into the second leg. Who will book their trip to the Grand Final next week? Before You Bet has you covered with our picks for each game below. Good luck to everyone following along!
A-League 2025-26: Semi Finals 2nd Leg Betting Tips
Adelaide United vs Auckland FC
Coopers Stadium, Friday 15th May, 7:35pm AEST
It was an even encounter in the first leg across the ditch, as both teams seemed to be content getting out without falling behind on aggregate. The Reds narrowly won the shot count 13-11 and narrowly lost the possession 51%-49%, as both teams failed to gain ascendancy across the 90 minutes in Auckland. Adelaide United will receive a huge boost with the league’s leading goal scorer Luka Jovanovic returning from suspension. Jovanovic scored a brace in the final game of the season that saw the Reds secure second place, and he’ll be desperate to make an impact after missing the first leg.
The Reds will be confident at home given their league best 7-3-3 record at home during the regular season, however Auckland won’t be daunted by the task of going on the road. The Black Knights have a 6-5-2 record in away games this season, the second best away record in the A-League. The big question for Auckland is if they can prevent Adelaide from controlling possession, and create as slow paced game as possible, to give themselves the best chance of winning.
With just 90 minutes to go, expect Adelaide United to be more aggressive in attack and play to their strengths at home. The Reds have been the second highest scoring team in the competition this season (47 goals), and they will be desperate to avoid letting this game go further than 90 minutes. Adelaide have been in better form to end the season, and they’ll continue that run en route to the Grand Final.
Adelaide United to Win
$2.40 (1 Unit)
Newcastle Jets vs Sydney FC
McDonald Jones Stadium, Saturday 16th May, 7:40pm AEST
Newcastle will be looking to secure their first Grand appearance since 2018 when they host Sydney FC on Saturday night. Eli Adams equaliser in the 58th minute ensured that the Jets and Sky Blues went to Newcastle all square at 1-1. Sydney FC produced one of their best performances in recent months, winning the shot count 10-6, recording 58% possession and holding an all conquering Newcastle attack to just 3 shots on target. It was a missed opportunity for the Sky Blues who should have gone into the second leg ahead on aggregate.
The possession battle looms as arguably the most important factor, with Sydney ranking second in the competition for possession and Newcastle ranking third. The Sky Blues were able to deny Newcastle’s ability to get pace on the ball, which has been their biggest strength. If Sydney are to have any chance to cause an upset in this clash, they need to have control through the middle and back thirds.
Newcastle have scored 30 goals at McDonald Jones Stadium this season, the most goals scored at home by any team in the competition this season. The Jets weren’t at their best last week and it’s difficult to see them having two down games in a row, especially when playing at home. Newcastle’s attacking game will be too much for a dour Sydney side to compete with, and the best side in the league will secure a place in the Grand Final.
Newcastle to Win
$2.25 (1.5 Units)
