Australia Cup returns to Top End for third consecutive year

Some of the country’s leading football clubs will descend on Darwin for Australia’s premier domestic tournament once more this May. Read why here.

Referees lead the teams out during the Australia Cup Play-Off match between Brisbane Roar and Perth Glory at Darwin Football Stadium, July 23, 2024 in Darwin, Australia. Picture: Mark Brake/Getty Images

Some of the country’s premier outfits will take to the field in Darwin as part of Australia’s biggest domestic sports tournament.

The Hahn Australia Cup Final Round Playoffs will take place in the Top End for the third consecutive year per a Football Australia announcement.

Larrakia Park will host two matches between the four clubs that finish the 2024/25 A-League regular season 10th to 13th.

And in a bid to make the matches relevant with the domestic competition, the FA has moved the fixtures forward to the end of the season as opposed to a pre-season event, to ensure all sides can field full-strength, in-form players.

New Football NT chief executive Jamie Montieh welcomed the recommitment of FA in ensuring the Top End can have a taste of the nation’s top league.

James York of Western United crosses during the Australia Cup Play-Off match between Brisbane Roar and Perth Glory. Picture: Mark Brake/Getty Images

“It’s a wonderful opportunity for our community to engage with some of the best our national competition has to offer, while also being a unique destination for fans to travel and support their team – enjoying the football along with everything else the NT has to offer,” he said.

“We’re so grateful to Football Australia for their ongoing commitment to bringing the Playoffs to Darwin and their broader support of football in the Territory.

“It’s an honour for Football Northern Territory to host this fantastic event once again.”

FA chief executive James Johnson said the decision to return to Darwin was a no-brainer.

“The response from the football community across the Northern Territory has been so pleasing over the last two years and reinforces the strength of football in bringing communities together,” he said.

“The ability for these playoffs to connect the professional level of our game with the grassroots is an invaluable part of our broader work within the region.”

Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.ticketebo.com.au/football-australia/hahn-australia-cup-2025-playoffs

Hahn Australia Cup 2025 Final Rounds Playoffs Match Schedule

Game 1 –

When: Tuesday, May 13

Who: 10th vs. 13th

Kick-off: 7.00pm local/7.30pm AEST

Venue: Darwin Football Stadium at Larrakia Park

Game 2 –

When: Wednesday, May 14

Who: 11th vs. 12th

Kick-off: 7.00pm local/7.30pm AEST

Venue: Darwin Football Stadium at Larrakia Park

Originally published as Australia Cup returns to Top End for third consecutive year