Sydney FC will host Melbourne Victory at the Allianz Stadium on Friday in another round of the 2025-26 Australian A-League campaign. Sydney FC's recent form has been inconsistent, but they have won their last two games, including a narrow 1-0 victory over Brisbane Roar in gameweek 18. Alexander Popovic's close-range strike early in the second half proved decisive for the Sky Blues, handing them their first victory at the Westpac Stadium in over five years. Melbourne Victory, meanwhile, have stepped things up after a slow start to their season and now sit fifth in the table, five points clear in the promotion playoff spots. The Victory went toe-to-toe with Adelaide United last time out and looked set for maximum points after Keegan Jelacic latched on to a Juan Mata pass to finish calmly and open the scoring midway through the first half. Sydney FC's defensive record has been impressive, having conceded just 18 goals in 19 matches. The Sky Blues have won 25 of their 68 encounters with Melbourne Victory, while the remaining 21 contests have ended level. Recent editions of this fixture have been closely contested, with both sides winning four apiece and drawing one in their last nine encounters. Sydney FC will need to bring their A-game if they are to overcome a capable Victory side. The Big V, meanwhile, have collected two wins and two draws from their last four matches. They suffered heavy defeats on their last two trips to the Allianz Stadium, but should have enough to pick up a point this time around. The prediction is for a 1-1 draw, with both teams to score and under 2.5 goals. Sydney FC's manager will be looking to exploit Melbourne Victory's weakness in defense, while the Victory will be hoping to catch the Sky Blues off guard. The match promises to be an exciting encounter, with both teams giving it their all. The Allianz Stadium will be electric, with the Sydney FC fans cheering on their team. The question is, will Sydney FC be able to capitalize on their home advantage and take all three points?