Victory’s CEO Prepares for Thrilling Melbourne Derby: ‘I Wish Them Hunger for Victory’

Anticipation is rising both on and off the pitch at AAMI Park, and Melbourne Victory head coach Arthur Diles is eagerly looking forward to it.

This Saturday, Victory will clash with their Isuzu UTE A-League adversaries, Melbourne City, as temperatures are projected to hit a sweltering 37 degrees.

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The match promises to be an intense affair in Melbourne, with only a point differentiating third-placed Victory from fourth-placed City as they enter Round 20.

“It’s going to be hot, and even if the weather wasn’t a factor, the intensity will be high, that’s for certain,” Diles remarked to the media ahead of the Melbourne Derby.

“When that whistle blows, the heat on the pitch will inevitably increase, especially with our passionate supporters behind us.

“We’re hoping for a packed house, because when our fans fill the stands, there’s no atmosphere quite like it in Australia.”

“This is a significant match. We expect the temperature—and the excitement—to rise as kick-off approaches.”

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Victory comes into the match fresh off a 1-0 victory over Wellington Phoenix in Round 19 and have secured three wins in their last four outings, propelling them back up the table.

Despite this, Diles insists his attacking players need to elevate their performance. The squad includes Greek import Nikos Vergos, Socceroo Nishan Velupillay, Bruno Fornaroli, Daniel Arzani, and Santos.

Out of the top eight teams in the A-League this season, only City has scored fewer goals than Victory thus far in the 2024-25 campaign.

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“I hope they’re more than just hungry; I hope they’re ravenous because we need an increase in our goal tally,” Diles expressed when discussing the hunger of his forwards.

“I believe they’ve displayed hunger, but perhaps it hasn’t been intense enough.”

“We generate numerous opportunities. While not every chance will lead to a goal, if we can sharpen our finishing, this team can continue to progress.”

“That’s a crucial aspect of our play and team structure.”

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