Melbourne Victory became the second Hahn Australia Cup semi-finalist for 2026 when they defeated APIA Leichhardt 1-0 on Wednesday evening.
They required extra time to get past a stubborn and high quality NPL NSW outfit, but in the end, substitute Harry Sawyer's goal was enough for the two-time winners to advance.
Read our review of the action below.
APIA Leichhardt 0 - 1 Melbourne Victory
Melbourne Victory will face Sydney FC in the first Hahn Australia Cup semi-final after their 1-0 victory over APIA Leichhardt at Leichhardt Oval.
APIA started without two of their biggest weapons, Presley Ortiz and Michael Konestabo, who had been struggling with illness throughout the week. While they were available to come off the bench, their absence was perhaps reflected in the slow tempo of the first half, as both sides felt each other out early.
Melbourne Victory had marginally more control over the game – with Keegan Jelacic particularly involved – but neither side was able to create a shot on target.
The game came to life in the second half. Jack Stewart of APIA had a shot on a tight angle that cannoned off the near post into the path of Frans Deli. His shot, in the 52nd minute, was the first on target for the game. It was deflected out for a corner.
APIA put the ball in the back of the net minutes later. Sean Symons scored at the back post after a well-worked set piece. Unfortunately for him, and the home fans, he was denied by the offside flag.
Victory immediately went up the other end and had a golden chance themselves. A pinpoint cross found Matthew Grimaldi, who was unmarked at the back post. His shot rocketed over the crossbar.
The game once again went into a holding pattern that was almost broken by the visitors in stoppage time. Jelacic, then Grimaldi, had strong shots in positive areas. On both occasions it was Eddie Caspers who stood tall, blocking the strikes off the line and keeping things level.
On we went to extra time in search of a goal, and it was Victory who managed to find the breakthrough. After some fantastic build-up play, Jelacic found Harry Sawyer in the penalty area. His finish was pinpoint across the face of goal to slot his second of the tournament, and give his side the lead.
The home side pushed for an equaliser. Presley Ortiz, off the bench, forced a good save out of Jack Duncan in the second half off extra time.
However, in the end, the A-League Men’s side were able to hold on. They are now one step closer towards the third Hahn Australia Cup trophy in their history.
