The anticipation builds as teams finalize their preparations for Round 4 of the Isuzu UTE A-League 2025-26 season. Here’s a comprehensive look at the team news ahead of the upcoming matches.
Injury Updates and Squad Changes
Auckland FC defender Nando Pijnaker is set to make his season debut during the New Zealand Derby after recovering from off-season ankle surgery. Conversely, Black Knights captain Hiroki Sakai will be sidelined due to a hamstring injury sustained in Round 3.
Wellington Phoenix’s defense faces a setback with Manjrekar James missing a second straight match due to a quad strain. He is joined on the sidelines by Hideki Ishige, who is dealing with a knee injury, as the list of unavailable players grows for the Phoenix.
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In a blow to Perth Glory, Wales international Tom Lawrence will miss Friday night’s encounter with Central Coast Mariners as he is undergoing concussion protocols.
Melbourne Victory’s hopes for the Melbourne Derby depend on the fitness of Louis D’Arrigo and Roderick Miranda, who were late withdrawals in the recent match against Glory.
Mathew Leckie, a key player for Melbourne City and the CommBank Socceroos, has been ruled out of the derby due to a hamstring injury.
Newcastle Jets might see young talent Clayton Taylor return to the matchday squad for the first time this season when they take on Brisbane Roar on Sunday.
Match Previews
Adelaide United vs. Western Sydney Wanderers
Scheduled for Friday at Coopers Stadium, Adelaide United has made several changes, bringing Jay Barnett and Jake Najdovski into the squad while omitting Vinko Stanisic and Amlani Tatu. The Wanderers have welcomed Gabriel Cleur and Mohamed Al-Taay back into the fold, with no outs or injuries reported.
Perth Glory vs. Central Coast Mariners
HBF Park will host this match on Friday evening. Perth Glory’s lineup will be affected by injuries, with goalkeeper Mark Birighitti and several other key players missing. The Mariners have also been hit by injuries; Trent Sainsbury and others will miss the clash.
Wellington Phoenix vs. Auckland FC
On Saturday, the Phoenix will aim to bounce back against Auckland FC. Alongside Pijnaker’s return for Auckland, Wellington’s squad is bolstered by the return of Ramy Najjarine while they await the recovery of key players.
Melbourne Victory vs. Melbourne City
The Saturday night Melbourne Derby is expected to be a tightly contested affair, although both teams face significant injury concerns. Victory’s success may hinge on the availability of D’Arrigo and Miranda, while City must cope without Leckie and several others.
Sydney FC vs. Macarthur Bulls
On Sunday, Sydney FC plays host to the Macarthur Bulls at Leichhardt Oval. Sydney is fielding a strong lineup but will have to manage injuries to Ben Garuccio and Mathias Macallister. The Bulls, who welcome back Frans Deli, will also be cautious as they face their opponents.
Brisbane Roar vs. Newcastle Jets
The weekend concludes with Brisbane hosting Newcastle. Brisbane’s plans may be hindered by injuries, including Hosine Bility, while Newcastle looks to integrate Taylor back into the team, promising an intriguing matchup.
As the fixtures approach, supporters are encouraged to secure their tickets and prepare for an exciting round of A-League action.
