Adelaide United W vs Melbourne Victory W Prediction at 17-01-2026

Adelaide United W

Adelaide United W has been riding high on a wave of positive momentum, with a commendable record of three wins, one draw, and one loss in their last five matches. Their attacking prowess has been spearheaded by Kate Mccabe, who’s not only been pivotal in scoring but also in creating opportunities for her teammates. Adelaide's strength lies in their aggressive front line and cohesive midfield play, orchestrated by the dynamic Lisa-Marie Woods.

However, defensive inconsistencies have crept in, as they have conceded 8 goals in their last five outings, presenting a vulnerability that Melbourne will surely look to exploit. Adelaide's last match ended in a satisfying 3-1 victory over Western Sydney Wanderers, raising their morale significantly.

Melbourne Victory W

In contrast, Melbourne Victory W has faced a more turbulent run, recording two wins and three losses in their previous five games. Despite this inconsistency, they remain a dangerous side, primarily due to the brilliance of Melina Ayres, who has shown both skill and tenacity in front of goal. Their defensive unit, led by seasoned veteran Kirsty Fenton, has been solid in patches but has been vulnerable under pressure. They recently suffered a heart-breaking 2-1 defeat against Sydney FC, highlighting issues in maintaining concentration late in games.

Statistics and Head-to-Head Record

The historical head-to-head record slightly favors Melbourne Victory W, who leads with 6 wins to Adelaide’s 4 in their last 12 encounters. Their last matchup resulted in a thrilling 2-2 draw, showcasing the competitive spirit both teams possess. In terms of season performance, Adelaide has scored a total of 22 goals this season while conceding 20. On the other hand, Melbourne has netted 19 times but has also faltered defensively, letting in 25 goals.

Venue Dynamics and External Factors

This match will take place at Hindmarsh Stadium, where Adelaide enjoys a significant home advantage. The passionate local fans create a formidable atmosphere, providing their team with a motivational boost. Weather conditions are forecasted to be clear, ideal for fast-paced football, which both teams favor. However, Adelaide's lineup could feel the pressure from an expected crowd of approximately 10,000 enthusiasts, which may amplify the stakes and performance intensity.

In terms of injuries, both teams are relatively healthy, with slight fitness concerns around Adelaide's Sophie Jones who has been nursing a hamstring issue but is expected to start. Melbourne will have to strategize carefully to ensure that Ayres is adequately supported and shielded from Nelson’s tenacious defending.