Juan Mata’s Melbourne Victory claimed a crucial win in the city derby (0–1), decided by a Matt Grimaldi goal deep into stoppage time. It was a thrilling game, with chances for both sides, enjoyed by more than 20,000 supporters at AAMI Park.
The decisive moment came from a corner delivered by Mata. After a couple of rebounds in the box, Grimaldi calmly guided his shot inside the post to score the only goal of the match. Three valuable points that move Melbourne Victory closer to the play-off places just before Christmas.
Juan Mata once again delivered “an excellent performance, typically intelligent,” according to the official A-League website. The Spaniard completed the full 90 minutes, registering four key passes, three ball recoveries and playing a key role in linking the team’s attacking play.
LET’S GOOO 🔥 pic.twitter.com/KJ5TmjkbwF
— Melbourne Victory (@gomvfc) December 20, 2025
Before kick-off, a minute’s silence was observed in memory of the victims of the tragic killing of several people at Bondy Beach. Melbourne Victory will close out 2025 on December 29, when they face Wellington Phoenix at home.
