A-League R16 betting preview, free tips & predictions

The thrilling 2024/25 A-League season continues this weekend, with a five-game slate headlined by the ‘Big Blue’ between Melbourne Victory and Sydney FC on Friday night. Here are BettingSite.com.au’s top tips for every game of Round 16.

Melbourne Victory vs Sydney FC

Friday, January 24 – 7:35pm AEDT – AAMI Park

Melbourne Victory host Sydney FC with both sides looking to turn their form around. Sydney are coming off a loss to the last-placed Roar, while Victory are winless in their last six matches. While Melbourne are the favourites, Sydney FC hold the best goalscoring record in the A-League and offer great value at $3 with top Australian bookmakers.

Wellington Phoenix vs Central Coast Mariners

Saturday, January 25 – 5pm NZDT – Apollo Projects Stadium

After an incredibly poor start to the season, the Mariners have shown glimpses of promise in the last few weeks, winning two of their last three games. However, they now face a tough trip across the Tasman to face Wellington, who are fresh off a 2-1 win over Macarthur FC. With a chance to get back in the finals mix, back the Phoenix to be too strong at home.

Newcastle Jets vs Perth Glory

Saturday, January 25 – 5pm AEDT – McDonald Jones Stadium

In a clash between two of the A-League’s bottom sides, this game is tough to pick. The pair have won just five of their 26 combined matches this season, while they hold the two worst attacking records in the competition. Expect the scoring droughts to continue with this match going under 2.5 goals at $2.60 with leading A-League bookies.

Macarthur FC vs Melbourne City

Saturday, January 25 – 7:35pm AEDT – Campbelltown Sports Stadium

After a short stint at the top of the A-League ladder, Melbourne City crashed back to earth in a 3-0 loss to Auckland FC last Saturday. This week they travel to face Macarthur FC, who sit just three points behind City and hold one of the best attacking records in the league. Picking a winner here is tough, but given the offensive talent on both sides of the field, expect some goals in this clash.

Western Sydney Wanderers vs Auckland FC

Sunday, January 26 – 5pm AEDT – CommBank Stadium

Sitting second on the ladder with the best defensive record in the A-League, Auckland FC continue to impress. They head to Sydney as slight favourites, but the Wanderers are a team to watch, given they have been unstoppable in front of goal. However, defensive issues have plagued Western Sydney throughout the season, so while they may hit the scoreboard, expect Auckland to be too strong.

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