Central Coast Mariners vs Melbourne City Prediction and Betting Tips | December 31, 2024

Central Coast Mariners host Melbourne City at the Industree Group Stadium in the A-League Men on Tuesday. Both teams are seeking to return to winning ways following dropped points in their previous outings.

Central Coast have dropped eight points in their last three matches, conceding nine goals against two scored. Central Coast are stuck in 10th spot in the standings with 10 points after eight rounds of matches.

The Mariners won the premiership and the championship last season but seem to be a shadow of their old selves this term. Although the season is in its early stages, the hosts' title defence hasn't gathered steam. Central Coast, though, prevailed over Melbourne City in their last two clashes (2-1, 2-1).

Melbourne shared the spoils in their last two matches, which thwarted their push to the top three. They are sixth with 14 points, winning four of eight matches. The visitors could leap to third place if they claim maximum points against Central Coast and other results go their way.

City last won the premiership in 2022-23, finishing sixth last season and earning qualification for the Finals series. However, they couldn't progress beyond the Elimination-finals. Melbourne are coming off a 1-1 draw at third-placed Melbourne Victory.

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Central Coast Mariners vs Melbourne City Head-to-Head and Key Numbers

• Central Coast have won thrice in their last five matches against Melbourne.
• The hosts have won thrice and lost once in their last five home games with Melbourne.
• Central Coast have lost four times in their last five home matches.
• Melbourne are unbeaten in their last five road outings, winning four.
• Central Coast have won once and lost thrice in their last five matches, while Melbourne have won twice and lost once in the same period.
• Form Guide: Central Coast: L-D-L-W-L; Melbourne: D-D-W-L-W

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Central Coast Mariners vs Melbourne City Prediction

The hosts will fight to avoid a third straight home defeat, while Melbourne are seeking a return to winning ways after back-to-back draws. Central Coast, though, are expected to prevail due to their superior quality.

Prediction: Central Coast 2-1 Melbourne

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Central Coast Mariners vs Melbourne City Betting Tips

Tip 1: Result – Central Coast

Tip 2: Game to have over 2.5 goals – Yes

Tip 3: Central Coast Mariners to score first – Yes

Tip 4: Melbourne to score - Yes