Underdogs Rise in the A-League Finals Series
Expectations were shattered as the lower-seeded teams produced tactical masterclasses to upset the regular-season leaders.
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Match Analysis
The Big Blue Final Battle
Key Battle: The midfield engine room where the veteran maestros dictated the pace against younger, faster opponents.
Tactical Key: The use of a 'false nine' to pull the opposition center-backs out of position created gaps for late-running midfielders.
Table Impact: Melbourne Victory advances to the Grand Final.
Stat of the Week
Extra Time Drama
Three of the last four finals matches went to extra time.
A record-breaking streak of late-game parity in the A-League era.
League Table Snapshot
Finals bracket progression.
| # | Team | Pts | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Central Coast Mariners | 55 | - |
| 2 | Melbourne Victory | 52 | ↑ |
Team News
Injury