Mathew Leckie, the standout player for Melbourne City, is hopeful that the third time will be the charm as he seeks the ultimate achievement in Saturday night’s landmark Isuzu UTE A-League Grand Final against Melbourne Victory.
Having won the Premiership three times, Leckie is now aiming for his first Championship since making his return to Melbourne, where a sell-out crowd will witness the inaugural Melbourne Derby Grand Final in the 20-year history of the league.
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Saturday will mark Leckie’s third Grand Final wearing City colours, after being defeated in his previous two finals. The 34-year-old former player from Hertha Berlin, Ingolstadt, and Borussia Monchengladbach is eager to lift the trophy above his head this time.
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“Winning the Grand Final would mean a lot,” Leckie said, responding to inquiries about what it would signify to him. “I returned with the aim of achieving success.”
“I believe I came back at a prime age, and the one thing I haven’t accomplished yet is winning a Grand Final. So here’s hoping for some luck this time.”
“We’ve had a remarkably consistent season, and if we can perform at our best and bring it all together, I believe we stand a strong chance.”
“However, we recognise Victory’s strengths; they are a quality team, and their journey from fifth place proves that. They possess a strong mentality and the talent to make it challenging for us, so we must be at the top of our game.”
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Saturday night’s Isuzu UTE A-League spectacle at AAMI Park is sold out, featuring 2021 champions City in their fifth Grand Final within six years.
“Reaching a Grand Final is one thing, but the fact that it’s the first-ever Derby round between Melbourne Victory and Melbourne City makes it incredibly special,” Leckie said.
“It sets the stage for a fantastic occasion.”
Leckie continued: “It’s incredible how quickly the tickets sold out. This is a significant event, and there’s a palpable excitement around it. We’re also excited.”
“There’s nothing quite like a packed stadium, the thrill of competing on that platform, and the opportunity to achieve something extraordinary—it’s all the motivation every player needs to give their all.”
How to watch?
Australian viewers can catch the Isuzu UTE A-League 2025 Grand Final live on Network 10, with exclusive streaming available on 10 Play and Paramount+.
For those in New Zealand, the match will be broadcast live on Sky Sport and streamed on Sky Sport Now.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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