Melbourne City’s AFC Women’s Champions League campaign got off to a flying start on Thursday, as they defeated Singaporean side Lion City Sailors FC 5-0 in Vietnam.
Michael Matricciani’s City took the lead in the 12th minute as CommBank Matildas star Holly McNamara converted from the spot following an early handball call.
Last season’s Ninja A-League Golden Boot winner then doubled hers and City’s tally in first-half stoppage time as she converted from the spot once again, this time after Danella Butrus was brought down inside the box.
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Already in complete control, 2024-25 runners-up City then made sure of the points in the 55th minute as Matildas defender Alexia Apostolakis cut inside and bent a superb curling effort into the top corner from outside the box.
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City soon added a fourth goal as Leah Davidson played Butros in behind the Lion City defence and City’s number seven drilled a powerful left-footed shot towards goal which beat the keeper at her near post.
The rout was then completed in the 73rd minute as Caitlin Karic was on hand to thump the ball into an unguarded net following a defensive mishap from the Lion City backline, which had them scrambling to avoid an unwanted own goal.
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The impressive 5-0 win is an impressive statement from Matricciani’s side, who were defeated in last season’s AFC Champions League final on penalties by Wuhan.
With the group stage fixtures being played in a hub in Vietnam, City will now face Filipino side Stallions Laguna FC on Sunday, November 16.
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The reigning Ninja A-League Premiers then round out their group stage clashes with a game against local side Ho Chi Minh City Women’s FC on Wednesday, November 19.
Following the completion of their fixtures in Vietnam, Matricciani and his charges then return to Ninja A-League action on December 7, when they host Wellington Phoenix at ctrl:cyber Pitch.
