Wellington Phoenix opened their 2026/27 A-League Men campaign with a 2-1 victory over Melbourne Victory on Sunday, 18 October, as substitute Riley Bidois scored the winning goal with his first touch to give the New Zealand club an encouraging start to its 20th season in the competition.
Playing at Hnry Stadium in Wellington, the Phoenix took the lead after just 14 minutes through Corban Piper, who headed home following an attacking move involving Luke Mitchell and Matthew Sheridan.
The hosts almost doubled their advantage shortly afterwards when Mitchell struck the crossbar from distance, but Melbourne Victory responded in the 24th minute. Charles Nduka capitalised on a loose ball inside the penalty area to restore parity for the visitors.
The match remained level at halftime, with both teams having opportunities to establish control. Phoenix goalkeeper Henry Gray was called upon during the second period, while the home side continued to look for openings against a Victory team that had arrived in Wellington after a demanding schedule of domestic and continental matches.
The decisive moment came in the 78th minute. Head coach Chris Greenacre had introduced Bidois only moments earlier, and the former Phoenix academy striker immediately made his presence felt by converting Nathan Walker’s delivery to restore the hosts’ advantage.
Wellington protected their narrow lead through the closing stages to secure three points in their opening fixture.
“It was an incredible day and we’re delighted,” Greenacre said after the match.
“I’m proud of all the players. Everyone went above and beyond today and I’m incredibly proud of the group.”
The Phoenix coach was particularly pleased with Bidois, whose immediate impact proved decisive.
“He’s a terrific finisher, a natural finisher and he gets himself into goalscoring positions,” Greenacre said.
The victory carried additional significance as Wellington began their 20th A-League Men season against the same opponents they faced in their inaugural campaign in 2007.
For the Phoenix, the performance also offered early encouragement after a period of changes to the playing squad. Five new signings started the match, while captain Alex Rufer was unavailable through illness.
Wellington will now look to build on their opening victory when they host Central Coast Mariners in their next league fixture, while Melbourne Victory return home to face Melbourne City in the Melbourne Derby.
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