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Sydney FC will start their upcoming A-League Men campaign against Western Sydney Wanderers, after the draw for the 2024-25 season was released.
Sydney FC will begin their 2024-2025 A-League Men campaign with a derby on enemy soil, followed by a reunion across the Tasman with their former coach and a trip to Brisbane.
The Sky Blues then do battle against Macarthur FC and their former skipper Luke Brattan, in their first home match of the season in round four.
Ufuk Talay's men are set to become road warriors in a busy month of fixtures released on Friday.
They first take on bitter rivals Western Sydney at CommBank Stadium on October 19, before meeting new ALM club Auckland FC under the tutelage of their former boss Steve Corica at Go Media Stadium.
After heading to Brisbane, they will host the Bulls on November 9 at Allianz Stadium.
The venue is unavailable for the opening weekend of the season with American rapper Travis Scott holding concerts there.
Newly appointed Sydney captain Rhyan Grant admits a month-long wait to play their first home match is less than ideal, but is looking forward to defeating the Wanderers on enemy territory.
"It's always going to be the case with a draw. To have three aways, probably not ideal but it is what it is," Grant said on Friday.
"It's a good way to get a few points on the road early and set our season up.
"We love coming up against the Wanderers. We enjoy playing out there too. To get a win out there is always nice, but to do it first round and kick off our season will be good."
Reigning premiers and champions Central Coast Mariners kick off the opening round by hosting Melbourne Victory at home on October 18.
Competition newcomers Auckland will host Brisbane Roar in their first home game on October 19 before Newcastle Jets play Melbourne City.
Western United and Perth Glory are away to Wellington and Macarthur FC respectively a day after.
Auckland's addition means the competition will expand to 29 rounds from 26 with each club playing 24 home-and-away fixtures and two additional third-match fixtures, including Unite Round.
Three byes have also been added, prioritising clubs competing in the AFC Champions League when back-to-back continental match days occur.
The iconic Sydney, Melbourne and F3 derbies will be played three times each this season, alongside the brewing banter between Wellington Phoenix and Auckland.
