A-League Semi-Finals Betting Tips - Auckland FC to put one foot in the A-League Grand Final

Get the latest betting tips and expert insight for the first-leg of the A-League semi-finals as Western United host Melbourne City and Melbourne Victory host Auckland FC. 

Western United were made to sweat on their place in the semi-finals as they saw their two-goal lead cut in the 79th minute by Adelaide United. While they were able to hold on for a 3-2 win, they looked nervous at times, and this is not something they can afford against a very good opponent. While United boast three consecutive wins heading into the first-leg of their semi-final, they have been poor against their opponents, losing their last four. I predict a tough first-leg for United as they are eased out of the way. 

Melbourne City were afforded a week off in the A-League as they watched the Elimination Finals from the sidelines. Arriving with 14 wins from their 26 regular season games, City will be confident that they can continue an unbeaten run that now stands at six games. With four consecutive wins over United including two on the road, I back the travelling side to secure a lead heading into the second-leg. 

Melbourne Victory secured a 2-1 win over Western Sydney Wanderers in the Elimination Finals as they eliminated the side that finished one place above them on the ladder. 12 wins across their 26 matches is a fairly impressive record, but they face the out and out best team in the competition this season. With neither of their meetings seeing Victory get one over on their opponents, I predict a tough match for the home side. 

Auckland FC have been superb this season, but they will know that they cannot take anything for granted as we head into the semi-finals. A few moments where concentration dips could see Auckland finish the first-leg behind, which would be a nightmare scenario after the season they have had. Auckland are unbeaten in their two against Victory, drawing at home and securing a 2-0 win on the road in April. With a big match at home to come, I back Auckland to secure the win as they keep their hopes of doing the double alive.