Adelaide United Advances to Australia Cup Quarter-Finals

Adelaide United has secured a place in the quarter-finals of the Australia Cup with a thrilling 3-2 victory over Olympic Kingsway in Perth on Tuesday night. The match saw a debut goal from Austin Ayoubi, a clever header from Luka Jovanović, and an unfortunate own goal from O’Connell, all contributing to the Reds’ progression in the tournament.

The team, led by coach Carl Veart, featured Ayoubi after an impressive pre-season, filling in for Dylan Pieras, who was unavailable for personal reasons. Luka Jovanović spearheaded the attack, while seasoned player Javi Lopez was positioned at left-back in place of Ryan Kitto.

Adelaide United started the match with vigor, earning an early breakthrough in the 10th minute when Ayoubi capitalized on a scramble in the box, showcasing his coach’s trust in him. Promising moments continued when Zach Clough fired a shot, skillfully saved by the Olympic Kingsway goalkeeper. However, the hosts posed a threat when Njegic struck Delianov’s left post, serving as a warning for the visiting team.

As the first half progressed, the dynamic Jonny Yull made a significant progression into Kingsway territory and passed to Jovanović. Unfortunately, Jovanović’s effort went over the bar. In the 37th minute, the home side equalized through Liam Boland, marking his twelfth goal in the Australia Cup and equalling the tournament record just before halftime. A missed close-range opportunity by Yull left the score 1-1 at the break.

The second half began with United maintaining their aggressive approach. Just moments into the half, Ayoubi’s deep cross was misdirected by O’Connell, resulting in an own goal that restored Adelaide’s lead. The match turned increasingly physical and chaotic, yet with twenty minutes remaining, Clough delivered a brilliant cross to Jovanović, who scored with a powerful header, doubling the Reds’ advantage.

In the final moments, Boland scored a penalty for Olympic Kingsway, securing his status as the leading goalscorer in Australia Cup history after Knowles was fouled by Delianov. However, Delianov redeemed himself with a crucial save in stoppage time, allowing Adelaide United to secure their victory. This loss marked the first defeat for Olympic Kingsway at home this season.

Adelaide United will now prepare for a quarter-final clash against Western Sydney Wanderers, with details to be confirmed in due course.