Mata magic lights up spectacular Victory derby win
Juan Mata scored two goals, including a world-class long-range chip, and assisted a stoppage-time third as Melbourne Victory moved to fifth in the A-League table, officials said.
- In a derby at AAMI Park, Mata delivered a starring performance, scoring twice and helping Victory beat Melbourne City 3-1, receiving a standing ovation.
- Victory coach Diles said 'I can assure you that I wouldn't have signed him if I didn't believe that this was the outcome we would get from him', citing Mata's pedigree after spells at Galatasaray and Vissel Kobe.
- Mata's opener came when Nishan Velupillay's pressure forced a turnover, allowing Mata to lob Melbourne City goalkeeper Patrick Beach from near the halfway line, and his second was a left-foot strike seconds after Victory regained possession.
- Victory now prepare to host Adelaide on Friday while Mata has three goals and a league-leading nine assists, making him a Johnny Warren Medal contender.
- Looking beyond the result, Aurelio Vidmar noted 'It can happen- he is who he is', as Victory's long trophy drought continues with Mata's form seen as pivotal.
13 Articles
13 Articles
'Incredible fight' won Victory derby says Diles
Arthur Diles was delighted with the relentless performance his team delivered in their Melbourne Derby triumph. Under the lights at AAMI Park, Melbourne Victory beat Melbourne City 1-3 to pull five points clear of their local rivals and into fifth place on the ladder. It was the team’s second win of the 2025/26 season in the fixture, and they were excellent value for the Isuzu UTE A-League maximum, with Max Caputo’s equaliser the only negative o…
Bruno Fernandes fires message to Juan Mata after his stunning double for Melbourne Victory - Man United News And Transfer News
Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes sent a message to former teammate Juan Mata, following the veteran midfielder’s brilliant performance in the Melbourne derby. Still got it Mata moved to A-League outfit Melbourne Victory from Western Sydney last September. He has started 15 league games for the Victory and despite his multiple assists, was struggling to find the back of the net. However, he put those issues firmly behind him as he orches…
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