Campbelltown City draws A-League side Melbourne City and Adelaide United faces Melbourne Knights in FFA Cup round-of-32

CAMPBELLTOWN City will take on A-League opposition while Adelaide United faces a tricky trip to a former NSL champion in the FFA Cup round-of-32. Find out who your team drew.

CAMPBELLTOWN City is set for the biggest test of its 56-year existence as it prepares to host A-League giant Melbourne City in its national FFA Cup debut.

The reigning SA top flight champion was paired with the cashed-up Victorian outfit in the knockout competition’s round-of-32 draw on Wednesday night.

Cup holder Adelaide United also faced a tricky task as it travelled to face two-time NSL king Melbourne Knights.

FFA Cup SA winner Adelaide Olympic would take on National Premier Leagues WA side Floreat Athena at home, in its first appearance on soccer’s national stage.

But Campbelltown’s David versus Goliath clash was the standout tie in the opening round of fixtures, which kicked off on July 23.

Campbelltown City captain and ex-Adelaide United defender Iain Fyfe will lead the Red Devils in their FFA Cup clash with A-League side Melbourne City. Picture: Ken Carter.

Red Devils chairman Don Leombruno said the underdog was ready for the challenge.

“We’re absolutely wrapped about it,” Leombruno said.

“We dreamt about this occasion from late last year when we won the Australian championship.

“We wanted to have the opportunity to play an A-League team and all the players are loving it.

“It’s going to be a huge test, but we’re looking forward to it. It’s a great moment for the club.”

Campbelltown qualified for round-of-32 by winning the National Premier Leagues playoff last year, after claiming the state’s minor premiership and championship double.

The five-time SA champion boasted a wealth of national league experience, including former Adelaide United trio Iain Fyfe, Daniel Mullen and Matthew Mullen.

Adelaide United winger Craig Goodwin celebrates his brace during last season’s FFA Cup final win over Sydney FC. Picture: Sarah Reed

Red Devils coach and ex-Socceroo Joe Mullen also had his nephew and midfielder Alex Mullen (Sydney FC), as well winger Joel Allwright (Newcastle Jets), at his disposal.

Leombruno said the club hoped to welcome 2016 cup winner City to its Steve Woodcock Sports Centre home, pending FFA approval of the ground.

“The home turf advantage is one thing, but also just to bring it back here to the local community,” said Leombruno, who watched the draw with the team at its Newton base.

“It’s going to be another big night for the club, but it’s all worth it.

“The boys are ready to take them on, because a lot of them have played at that (national league) level.

“There’s players in our club that still want to get an opportunity in the A-League and there’s no better chance than playing against Melbourne City during their pre-season.”

Adelaide Olympic players and staff following their FFA Cup SA final victory against Adelaide City. Picture: AAP/Emma Brasier

New Adelaide United coach Gertjan Verbeek would face a baptism of fire when he led his two-time cup winner into battle against the Knights in his first competitive outing at the helm.

The 1995 and 1996 NSL champion, which produced national team legend Mark Viduka, was renowned for its passionate supporter base and currently sat sixth in the NPL Victoria.

Adelaide Olympic meanwhile, would back itself with home ground advantage against four-time WA top-tier champion Floreat Athena.

The Ferryden Park-based club downed Adelaide City 2-1 in the weekend’s FFA Cup SA final to claim its maiden major silverware and advance to the round-of-32 for the first time.

Match details and venues would be announced later this week.