A-League Unite Round Preview: Brisbane Roar vs Adelaide United

The Isuzu UTE A-League Unite Round is upon us, and this weekend's clash between Brisbane Roar and Adelaide United promises to be a captivating encounter. Both teams enter the match with contrasting fortunes, setting the stage for a thrilling contest at Allianz Stadium in Sydney on Saturday.

Brisbane Roar's Quest for a Victory

Brisbane Roar's start to the season has been far from ideal. They are the only team yet to register a point, having suffered defeats in their opening three matches. Their last outing resulted in a 2-0 loss against league leaders Melbourne Victory. The Roar will be desperate to turn things around and secure their first win of the new campaign. They will look to their experienced players and also their upcoming young talents to make the difference. The international break provided a much-needed respite, allowing several Roar players to represent their respective national teams. Rafael Struick (Indonesia), Walid Shour (Lebanon), Jack Hingert (Sri Lanka), Marcus Ferkranus (Australia U23), and Lucas Herrington (Australia U20) all gained valuable international experience.

Roar's Team News and Injuries

Coach Ruben Zadkovich has some selection headaches. Jacob Brazete is in contention to make his Isuzu UTE A-League debut after impressing with Sydney FC's NPL side. The return of Struick, Shour, and Hingert from international duty adds depth to the squad. However, Neicer Acosta remains sidelined with a leg injury, expected to be out for another two to three weeks. The absence of Acosta is a blow to the Roar's attacking capabilities, but it also provides an opportunity for other players to step up and showcase their talents. The full squad shows that despite some injuries, Zadkovich is ready to give it his all.

Brisbane Roar Squad: 1. Macklin FREKE (GK), 3. Corey BROWN, 4. Ben WARLAND, 6. Joe CALETTI, 7. Rafael STRUICK, 8. Walid SHOUR, 10. Florin BERENGUER, 15. Hosine BILITY, 16. Thomas WADDINGHAM, 17. Harry VAN DER SAAG, 18. Jacob BRAZETE, 19. Jack HINGERT, 21. Antonee BURKE-GILROY, 23. Keegan JELACIC, 24. Sam KLEIN, 26. Jay O’SHEA (C), 27. Ben HALLORAN, 29. Matt ACTON (GK), 35. Louis ZABALA, 43. Adam ZIMARINO (Two to be omitted)

Ins: 18. Jacob BRAZETE (promoted) Outs: 30. Quinn MACNICOL (omitted) Unavailable: 2. Scott NEVILLE (injured), 11. Neicer ACOSTA (injured)

Adelaide United's Strong Start

In contrast to Brisbane Roar's struggles, Adelaide United are enjoying a positive start to the season. They currently sit fifth in the A-League ladder after a 2-1 victory over Western United in their last match. Their comeback win highlighted their resilience and attacking prowess. The Reds have made one change to their squad for the Unite Round clash, with Josh Cavallo replacing Ryan White, who is away on international duty.

Adelaide United's Team News

Adelaide United Squad: 1.James DELIANOV, 3. Bart VRIENDS, 6. Stefan MAUK, 7. Ryan KITTO, 8. ISAÍAS, 9. Luka JOVANOVIĆ, 10. Zach CLOUGH, 12. Jonny YULL, 14. Jay BARNETT, 17. Ben FOLAMI, 19. Yaya DUKULY, 20. Dylan PIERIAS, 21. Javi LÓPEZ, 26. Archie GOODWIN, 27. Josh CAVALLO, 36.Panashe MADANHA, 40. Ethan COX, 42. Austin AYOUBI, 51. Panagiotis KIKIANIS, 55. Ethan ALAGICH.

Ins: 27. Josh CAVALLO Outs: 55. Ryan WHITE Unavailable: 4. Jordan ELSEY, 23. Luke DUZEL

A Look Back: Recent Encounters

The two teams have a long history, having faced each other 58 times previously. Adelaide United holds a slight edge in the head-to-head record, with 27 wins compared to Brisbane Roar's 20. Their last encounter ended in a thrilling 4-3 victory for Adelaide United at Suncorp Stadium. This match promises to be equally intense and filled with goals.

The Roar's Focus on Youth Development

Despite their winless start, there's a positive narrative unfolding at Brisbane Roar. Coach Ruben Zadkovich is keen to foster homegrown talent, highlighting Adelaide United's successful youth program as a “blueprint” for their own development strategy. He sees the long-term benefits of investing in Queensland players, aiming to produce future Socceroos while building a more sustainable club model. Zadkovich even hinted at possible A-League debuts for several young Brisbane players in the coming weeks, a testament to their commitment to developing young talent. The upcoming clash is an opportunity for these young players to make their mark in the top flight of Australian football.

The Path to Redemption

Saturday's match is more than just a regular league game; it’s a chance for redemption. For Brisbane, it’s about breaking their winless streak and reigniting their season. For Adelaide, it’s about maintaining their unbeaten run and solidifying their place in the top half of the table. The game will be broadcast live on Paramount+, 10 Play & 10 Bold, making it accessible to fans across the country. The clash is shaping up to be a compelling encounter and is a must-see for any A-League fan. The Roar will need to put all their efforts into this game and hope for a much better outcome than their last three games. The upcoming match is critical for both teams, and the stakes are high. This is a match that will set the tone for the rest of the season. The final whistle will surely bring excitement and possibly even some surprises.