A-League Men Opta Team of the Week: Semi-Finals 2nd Legs
This article highlights the top performers from the second legs of the A-League Men semi-finals, showcasing key players who made a significant impact on the matches.

The 2025-26 Isuzu UTE A-League Grand Final has been set following a weekend filled with intense semi-final second legs. Auckland FC emerged victorious with a commanding 3-0 win over Adelaide United at Coopers Stadium, securing a 4-1 aggregate score that grants them the opportunity to host the Grand Final in 2026.
Sydney FC's Thrilling Victory
Sydney FC also made headlines by defeating the Premiers, Newcastle Jets, in a dramatic penalty shootout that ended 4-2 after a gripping match at McDonald Jones Stadium. This unexpected result means that Sydney FC will travel to Go Media Stadium to face Auckland FC in the Grand Final.
Standout Performers
In the aftermath of the penalty shootout, Sydney FC goalkeeper Harrison Devenish-Meares was highlighted as the top scorer, a feat he has achieved multiple times this season. He will be supported defensively by teammates Alexandar Popovic and captain Rhyan Grant. The backline is completed by Auckland FC's Jake Girdwood-Reich and Newcastle Jets' impressive Daniel Wilmering.
In midfield, Auckland FC's Louis Verstraete takes on a pivotal role following his strong performance against Adelaide United, flanked by Sydney FC's Tiago Quintal and Piero Quispe. Leading the attack is Auckland's top scorer and Golden Boot winner Sam Cosgrove, joined by teammate Jesse Randall and Newcastle Jets' young talent Eli Adams, who scored a remarkable late equaliser against Sydney FC to push the match into extra time.
With the stage set for an exciting Grand Final, fans are eagerly anticipating the clash between Auckland FC and Sydney FC, both of whom have shown remarkable resilience and skill throughout the semi-finals.
Source: aleagues.com.au