Wanderers Host Jets in Crucial A-League Men Clash
PARRAMATTA, 17 January 2026 – Western Sydney Wanderers will look to build on their first win in six matches when they host a resurgent Newcastle Jets at CommBank Stadium this evening. The 5:00 pm kick-off pits the 11th-placed Wanderers against the 6th-placed Jets in a fixture that has historically delivered goals and drama.
Form Guide
Alen Stajcic’s Wanderers ended a five-game winless run with a disciplined 1-0 away victory over Melbourne Victory last weekend. A penalty from veteran striker Kosta Barbarouses secured the three points, lifting the Red & Black off the bottom of the ladder. Their defence, marshalled by goalkeeper Lawrence Thomas, will need to be at its best against a free-scoring Jets attack.
Newcastle arrive in Parramatta in high spirits after a 1-0 win over Melbourne City, their fourth victory in five matches. Spearheaded by the league’s leading scorer Lachlan Rose (6 goals), the Jets have found a potent formula, although their defensive record remains a concern, having conceded 23 goals in 12 matches.
Key Facts & Head-to-Head
| Statistic | Western Sydney Wanderers | Newcastle Jets |
|---|---|---|
| League Position | 11th | 6th |
| Points | 12 (3W, 3D, 6L) | 18 (6W, 0D, 6L) |
| Goals Scored | 9 (Avg. 0.75 per game) | 24 (Avg. 2.0 per game) |
| Goals Conceded | 14 (Avg. 1.17 per game) | 23 (Avg. 1.92 per game) |
| Last Result | W 1-0 vs Melbourne Victory (A) | W 1-0 vs Melbourne City (A) |
| Top Scorer | Kosta Barbarouses (4) | Lachlan Rose (6) |
Team News & Squads
Wanderers head coach Alen Stajcic has named an extended squad, with the match-winner Barbarouses expected to lead the line once more. Key midfielders Joshua Brillante and Bozhidar Kraev are set to start, while defender Anthony Pantazopoulos will look to add to his solitary goal this campaign.
Newcastle will rely on the creative partnership of Alexander Badolato (4 goals, 3 assists) and Daniel Wilmering (3 assists) to supply chances for Rose. Their form suggests they will adopt an attacking posture, despite being away from home.
Recent Head-to-Head: The last five meetings have been tightly contested. The Wanderers won the most recent encounter 1-0 in April 2025, but the Jets triumphed 4-1 in Parramatta in November 2024. The match before that, in February 2024, ended in a thrilling 3-3 draw.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does Western Sydney Wanderers vs Newcastle Jets kick off?
The A-League Men match is scheduled for 5:00 pm AEDT on Saturday, 17 January 2026.
Where is the match being played?
The game will be held at CommBank Stadium in Parramatta, New South Wales.
What is the recent form of these teams?
Western Sydney Wanderers ended a five-match winless streak with a 1-0 win last round. Newcastle Jets have won four of their last five matches.
Who are the players to watch?
For the Wanderers, watch for striker Kosta Barbarouses and midfielder Joshua Brillante. For the Jets, top scorer Lachlan Rose and playmaker Alexander Badolato are the main threats.