Sydney FC Head Coach Ufuk Talay says his squad is in “good spirits” and ready to meet the challenge of Sunday’s Hahn Australia Cup tie against Sydney United 58 at Edensor Park.
The Sky Blues will head to western Sydney looking to secure a place in the next round of the competition, with Talay confident his side’s preparation has put them in a strong position.
“The boys are in a good place and have been working hard,” Talay explained.
“We’ve been building well in pre-season and the group is in a positive frame of mind.
“The Cup is a great competition – it brings something different, and Sunday is another opportunity for us to step up and perform when it matters.”
Respect for the Opposition
While the focus is firmly on his side’s own performance, Talay was quick to acknowledge the pedigree of their NPL NSW opponents.
Sydney United 58 reached the Australia Cup Final just three years ago, defeating A-League sides along the way, and remain known for their ability to rise to the occasion in knockout football.
“Edensor Park has always been a fantastic place to play,” he said. “It can be quite hostile, but that’s what makes the Cup so exciting – it’s a real football atmosphere.
“Sydney United are a club with a proud history, they’ve won trophies and developed some fantastic players and coaches. They’ll have a big crowd behind them and they’ll do everything they can to progress, so we need to make sure we match that intensity.
WATCH MORE: ALEX GRANT | PRESS CONFERENCE
READ MORE: RHYAN GRANT SIGNS ONE YEAR EXTENSION
“If I go back to my times in the old NSL playing for Marconi, we really looked forward to going to Edensor Park because the pitch was immaculate and the atmosphere was quite hostile but I know this game will be just as entertaining.”
Young Talent Stepping Up
One of the big storylines heading into Sunday’s clash is the continued opportunity for 18-year-old goalkeeper Gus Hoefsloot, who impressed in recent matches against Western United and Wrexham. With Harrison Devenish-Meares sidelined through injury, Talay believes Hoefsloot is ready to take his chance.
“Gussy did well when called upon, both in the league and against a strong Wrexham side,” Talay said.
“He’s a young goalkeeper with huge potential, and this is how careers are made – opportunities come up through injuries or suspensions, and now he has the chance to show he can be the man between the sticks.”
Squad Updates
Brazilian marquee Douglas Costa remains in his home country dealing with personal matters, but Talay is optimistic about a quick return. Meanwhile Leo Sena is unavailable for this clash.
“He’s [Costa] got his training program and is keeping himself fit,” the Head Coach said.
“We’re hopeful it’s a matter of days rather than weeks before he’s back in the team environment. Of course, we want him here as soon as possible, but we’re also supportive of him resolving the situation he’s facing back in Brazil.
“Leo also is unavailable for this one as he is going through some personal matters and is not physically 100% ready.”
The Sky Blues are also active in the transfer market as they look to add further quality before the Isuzu UTE A-League season kicks off.
“There’s a lot happening in the background,” Talay revealed.
“We’ve identified targets and are in conversations with players who fit what we’re building.
“The club has always been ambitious when it comes to signings, and we want to put a team on the park that can win trophies and entertain our fans.”
Eye on Asia
For Talay, the Australia Cup is not just an opportunity for silverware – it’s also a potential pathway back into Asian competition, something he considers vital for the club’s ambitions.
“It’s very important for us to get back into Asia,” he said.
“That’s where we want to test ourselves against the best in the region. It’s also important for the club to be seen in the Asian market.
“We strive to be in these competitions because they raise the level of the team, challenge us in different ways, and connect Sydney FC to a bigger stage.”
The Challenge Ahead
Talay knows Sunday’s game will be anything but straightforward. With a passionate home crowd, a history of Cup success, and the lure of an A-League scalp, Sydney United will be highly motivated.
“They’ll be ready to give everything,” Talay concluded.
“We have to match their desire, play our football, and show the quality we have. If we do that, we can get the job done and move on to the next round.”
Sydney FC face Sydney United 58 this Sunday at Edensor Park, with kick-off at 3pm.
Match Details
Sydney United 58 v Sydney FC
Hahn Australia Cup Round of 16
Sunday 10th August 2025
Sydney United Sports Centre, Edensor Park, NSW
Kick Off: 3pm AEST
Gates Open: 2pm AEST
Broadcast Live: Paramount+
Tickets: Click Here
