Melbourne Victory break Auckland hearts to set up A-League Men grand final derby against City

Melbourne Victory secured their first grand final since 1972 with a thrilling 2-0 victory over Auckland in their A-League semi-final. Despite losing the first leg at home due to a crucial own goal initially missed by the linesman but corrected after VAR intervention, the Victories advanced thanks to Zinedine Machach and Bruno Fornaroli's contributions. Auckland coach Corica expressed frustration at not overturning the deficit despite having secured their place via an earlier win, while coach Diles of Melbourne Victory remains cautious about key players' fitness amid concern over a first grand final since 1972 in their quest to close the seven-year gap in Auckland's championship dominance.