Newcastle Jets vs Wellington Phoenix prediction

AI match recap

Newcastle bring home advantage and a strong recent record against Wellington, but arrive after demanding continental travel and with a stretched availability picture. Wellington have started sharply and carry momentum into their first road match, with Rufer's return strengthening their midfield structure. The decisive contest is likely to be whether the Jets' creators can pin Wellington back before fatigue changes the rhythm. Expect an open contest once either side breaks the first press, rather than a passive territorial stalemate.

Head-to-head analysis

Newcastle have won the last two league meetings and also took the latest contest at McDonald Jones Stadium. The broader recent series is competitive rather than one-sided, with both clubs regularly finding routes to goal.

Injuries and absences

Newcastle's larger absence list reduces resilience around a side already managing continental recovery, while Fryer's ACL absence and Cooper's foot injury remove depth. Wellington remain without Conchie, Hughes and Smith, but Rufer's return from illness gives Greenacre an important midfield organiser.

Form (last 5)

Newcastle Jets vs Wellington Phoenix stats

Last meetings

• 2026-01-23Newcastle Jets 4-1 Wellington Phoenix
• 2025-12-14Wellington Phoenix 1-3 Newcastle Jets
• 2025-04-06Newcastle Jets 1-2 Wellington Phoenix
• 2024-12-28Wellington Phoenix 2-1 Newcastle Jets
• 2024-09-17Wellington Phoenix 0-1 Newcastle Jets
• 2024-04-19Newcastle Jets 1-1 Wellington Phoenix

Unavailable players

Other A-League matches

• Brisbane Roar – Auckland
• Melbourne City – Sydney
• Macarthur – Western Sydney Wanderers
• Melbourne Victory – Central Coast Mariners
• Perth Glory – Adelaide United