Melbourne Victory skipper Jason Davidson says his teammates are well equipped to deal with the favourites tag bestowed upon them for Saturday night’s 2026 Australia Cup Final against local rivals South Melbourne FC.
Victory will face off against NPL VIC powerhouse South Melbourne in front of a packed house at AAMI Park on Saturday night as they bid to secure a record-equalling third Australia Cup title.
Speaking at the official media conference ahead of the game, the 23-time Socceroo says his teammates are embracing the pressure and expectations that come with playing for a club of Victory’s status.
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“We are fortunate to have some players in the team that have been a part of finals,” Davidson said.
“You take the game as it is, and your preparation, your planning are the same as any other game. It doesn’t matter about the opponent.”
Victory previously lifted the cup in both 2015 and 2021, where they beat Perth Glory and Central Coast Mariners respectively to lift the famous trophy.
“It is an honour and a privilege, but there is also that pressure at every game, every season, every trophy or any tournament that we are in; we are expected to win.
“For us, we have had a great start to the campaign, working hard, we have got a new coach, and we have really created a family environment.
“Young boys, old boys, everyone involved, we are on the same mission.”
Davidson is no stranger to winning trophies having been part of the side that beat the Mariners in 2021 as well as picking up silverware during stints in both South Korea and Slovenia.
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However Saturday night’s mouthwatering match-up at AAMI Park will pull on the heartstrings somewhat for Davidson given his family ties to the opposition.
Davidson’s father, Alan Davidson, not only represented the Socceroos with distinction earning 51 caps, but also enjoyed an illustrious career with South Melbourne.
“Obviously, he is excited to see his son have the opportunity to play in a final and win a trophy,” Davidson said when asked about his family allegiance to Saturday’s opponents.
“We all know the history of him at South Melbourne and what that means to him and the Davidson family.
“He is super excited, as am I. It is going to be a spectacle and amazing to be a part of that.”
Watch the full press conference below!
MATCH DETAILS
Hahn Australia Cup 2026 Final
South Melbourne FC v Melbourne Victory FC
Date: Saturday, 10 October 2026
Venue: AAMI Park, Melbourne
Kick-off: 7.35pm AEDT
Broadcast: Network 10 and Paramount+
