Bitesize Prediction: Wellington Phoenix vs Melbourne Victory – 19/01/24

Competition: A-League

Market: Both teams to score

Odds: 8/13 @ Pribet

In what looks set to be an action-packed A-League showdown on Friday morning, Wellington will welcome Melbourne Victory to the Sky Stadium.

Starting with the hosts, putting in another stellar performance last weekend as they eventually snatched a thrilling 4-3 win away at Perth, Wellington have continued on a remarkable A-League romp this season. Receiving a string of plaudits and already cementing their spot as the A-League’s surprise package this year, Giancarlo Italiano’s side are currently leading the chase at the top of the table and the mood in their camp appears to be at a red-hot high. While the Phoenix might have signed off 2023 with a 3-1 defeat against Sydney, that is just the second loss that Wellington have suffered from their previous 12 domestic appearances across all competitions. Likewise, it should also be highlighted that Friday’s hosts have certainly gained a reputation for their continued success at the Sky Stadium. Last seen in front of their own supporters claiming a deserved 2-0 victory against Western Sydney, Italiano’s high-flying squad have won four of their previous five showdowns on home soil.

As for the visitors, although Melbourne might have found themselves at the heart of a major A-League struggle last season, the Victory have come roaring back this time around. With just their goal difference keeping them behind Wellington and climbing to the top of the table, Tony Popovic’s side have lost just one of their first 12 A-League appearances this season. Opening the New Year with an action-packed 3-2 win away at Perth, the former Western Sydney boss will also be excited by his side’s clinical performances in the final third. Including a stellar 3-0 victory against former champions Sydney last month, Friday’s guests have bagged 25 strikes in their first 12 top-flight battles this season. With no A-League outfit boasting a better attacking return so far this year, neutrals could be treated to another enjoyable affair from the Sky Stadium this weekend. With Melbourne seeing five of their previous six away fixtures finish with both teams getting on the scoresheet, we are expecting a similar outcome on Friday morning.

Bet: Both teams to score at Wellington Phoenix vs Melbourne Victory 8/13 for Friday’s A-League matchup @ Pribet