The countdown is on! With the release of the 2025 NPLW Victoria season fixture, anticipation is building for what promises to be an unforgettable campaign.
Here's a closer look at some of the must-watch clashes form the opening rounds that will set the tone for an action packed year ahead.
Round 1: FV Academy v Alamein
The FV Academy, re-branded from FV Emerging in September, is set to make its much-anticipated NPLW debut in 2025 against Alamein FC at The Home of the Matildas. This match marks not just the start of a new season for the young side, but also a celebration of the nationally aligned program designed to identify and develop Victoria’s brightest young football talent.
Led by experienced Head Coach Santi Escudero, whose resume includes stints at Villarreal CF, South Melbourne, La Rozas, and Melbourne Victory, the FV Academy represents the pinnacle of youth football development in the state. After a focused preseason under some of Victoria’s best coaches, all eyes will be on this talented squad to see how they perform on the big stage.
On the other side, Alamein FC, led by new Head Coach John Kyrgios, will be determined to spoil the Academy’s debut and secure a strong start to their campaign. After finishing eighth in 2024, Alamein will look to make a statement and build early momentum for a successful season.
Round 1: Spring Hills v Preston Lions
Spring Hills are set to make their highly anticipated NPLW debut in the opening round, hosting Preston Lions at the vibrant Springside Recreation Reserve. Tom Markovski’s squad enters the competition brimming with confidence after a dominant VPLW season that saw them clinch both the Premiership-Championship double, suffering just one defeat along the way.
Their first challenge in the top tier is a formidable one, as they take on 2024 Grand Finalists Preston Lions. Determined to bounce back after their narrow Grand Final loss to Heidelberg, the Lions will be eager to make a statement in their first competitive outing of the new campaign. This clash promises to be a thrilling encounter as Spring Hills look to announce themselves on the NPLW stage against one of the competition’s heavyweights.
Round 1: Bentleigh Greens v South Melbourne
Round 1 brings added intrigue to Kingston Heath Soccer Complex as former Bentleigh captain Olivia Bomford faces her old team for the first time since joining South Melbourne. A standout performer for the Greens last season, Bomford, originally from Tasmania, netted 10 goals in 22 matches and played a key role in steering Bentleigh clear of relegation.
The former captain and two-time Battle of the States representative now brings her attacking prowess to South Melbourne, linking up with former Golden Boot winner Danielle Micallef in a formidable forward line. South Melbourne, the 2023 NPLW Champions, have been on a recruitment drive this season, eager to rebound after a challenging campaign in 2024. With Bomford returning to face her former club, this grudge match is shaping up as one of the must-watch fixtures of the opening round.
Round 3: Bulleen Lions v Preston Lions
Round 3 will give us our first grudge match from 2024, as Preston look to avenge their heartbreaking Nike FC Cup Final defeat. Dan Foden's side had the perfect chance to make history after taking an early 1-0 lead inside five minutes, but they were unable to hold onto the advantage in a dramatic and fluctuating encounter. Despite going into half-time trailing after two first-half goals from Bulleen, the team from BT Connor Reserve refused to back down.
When Lourdez Gonzalez made it 3-1 for Bulleen with just 12 minutes left, it seemed like the match was all but over. However, Preston’s never-give-up attitude was on full display as captain Georgia Henderson fired in a stunning long-range strike just seconds later. The final 10 minutes turned into a frantic race to the finish, but ultimately, Bulleen emerged as winners of the Nike FC Cup, breaking their curse on the biggest stage. Throughout the 2024 NPLW season, the two sides each claimed a win on away soil, and when they meet again, we can expect another thrilling encounter filled with fireworks.
Round 4: Preston Lions v Essendon Royals
As the first month of the new season wraps up, all eyes turn to BT Connor Reserve for a highly anticipated 2024 Semi-Final rematch between Preston and Essendon. Separated by goal difference at the end of last season, these two sides are set to renew their fierce rivalry in what promises to be another thrilling encounter.
In last year’s semi-final, it was Haley Johnson’s decisive strike that secured a narrow 1-0 victory for the Lions, ending Essendon’s Grand Final aspirations. Now, Vince Battiato’s team is determined to prove they belong on the big stage and exact revenge. With a competition this tight, every point matters. A win here would be a crucial early-season boost for both teams – and there’s no better statement than claiming victory over a fellow contender.
Round 7: Box Hill United v Heidelberg United
Box Hill United and Heidelberg United share one of the richest and most storied rivalries in Victorian football. These two powerhouses have faced off in numerous high-stakes matches over the years, including a remarkable five Grand Final showdowns between 2006 and 2010. Their clashes have been defined by thrilling moments, legendary players, and a fierce competitive spirit that has captivated fans. Box Hill Inter’s dominance in the late 2000s were followed by an undefeated season in 2012 as the amalgamated Box Hill United, establishing them as the powerhouse of the modern era. Heidelberg United, however, proved their mettle by breaking Box Hill's winning streak in 2007 and continuing to challenge them in subsequent seasons.
The rivalry is punctuated by iconic performances, such as Daniela Digiammarco’s late Grand Final heroics and Melissa Barbieri’s commanding presence as goalkeeper. This rivalry is set to reignite in Round 9, with Heidelberg United, the reigning NPLW Champions, hosting Box Hill United, keen to return to such heights. Both teams carry immense pride and tradition into this encounter, making it much more than just another league match. For the Bergers, it’s a chance to reinforce their Championship pedigree, while Box Hill looks to reclaim their dominance and make a statement in the 2024 season. Fans can expect a passionate and hard-fought battle that reflects the enduring legacy of these two iconic clubs.
Round 9: South Melbourne v Bulleen Lions
Round 9 serves up another tantalising clash as South Melbourne host Bulleen Lions at Lakeside Stadium. Adding to the drama, Tiffany Eliadis and Alana Burn will face their former side for the first time since their offseason move to the blue and white. Both players were pivotal to Bulleen’s success in recent years, playing key roles in their Nike FC Cup triumph in 2024 and consistent league performances. Now, they’ll be eager to prove their decision to switch clubs was the right one.
South Melbourne, still seeking to rediscover the form that delivered them the 2023 NPLW title, are determined to rebound after a challenging 2024 campaign. Meanwhile, Caitlin Friend’s Bulleen Lions will aim to show their strength and adaptability, proving they can thrive without two of their former stars. Having fallen short in the 2024 NPLW Semi-Finals against Heidelberg United, Bulleen will be determined to demonstrate they remain a force to be reckoned with.
Round 10: Heidelberg United v Bulleen Lions
The scenes following the Bergers' emphatic victory over Bulleen in last year’s NPLW Semi-Final could have easily been mistaken for a Grand Final celebration. The underdogs stunned the Premiers with a commanding performance at the Veneto Club, delivering a momentous upset that will be etched in the memories of Berger supporters for years to come.
Now, the reigning Champions face last season’s Premiers in a highly anticipated showdown that will determine early bragging rights in the NPLW Victoria. This time, the clash moves to the intimidating backdrop of Olympic Village, adding an extra layer of difficulty for Caitlin Friend's Bulleen.
Round 11: South Melbourne v Boroondara Eagles
While the teams may look different by May 2025, the events of the 2023 NPLW season will remain unforgettable for both clubs. Two seasons ago, the Eagles, coached by John Krygios, were one result away from securing a historic Premiers Plate. However, South Melbourne had other plans. Due to scheduling conflicts, Boroondara was forced to relocate their crucial match, as their regular home ground was unavailable, with the Veneto Club’s co-tenants, Bulleen Lions, occupying the venue.
This led to the match being played at Dorset Recreation Reserve in Croydon, where Boroondara lost 2-0. Former Golden Boot winner Danielle Micallef and import Tayla Christensen were the difference-makers, securing the Premiers Plate for Bulleen. This setback left Krygios' side in second place, setting up a semi-final clash with South Melbourne a week later. Back at the Veneto Club, Boroondara hoped to regroup, but despite a determined performance, they ultimately lost 2-1, leaving them with a missed opportunity for glory.