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Adelaide United and Auckland FC drew 2-2 in a thrilling A-League Men match, featuring late goals and VAR drama.

Adelaide United and Auckland FC faced off in a gripping A-League Men clash on January 22, 2025, ending in a dramatic 2-2 draw. The match, a top-of-the-table encounter, was marked by intense competition and significant VAR interventions that shaped the outcome.

In the first half, both teams struggled to create clear chances, with Adelaide`s early scoring prowess notably absent. Their inexperienced goalkeeper, Ethan Cox, faced minimal threats from Auckland`s solid defense, while Auckland`s Alex Paulsen remained largely untested. The first half settled into a gritty battle, setting the stage for a more dynamic second half.

The game shifted after halftime as Auckland increased their attacking efforts. Substitute Neyder Moreno broke the deadlock in the 66th minute, but Adelaide contested the goal, claiming a handball. VAR reviewed the incident and confirmed the goal stood, as the ball had deflected off an Adelaide defender.

Adelaide responded with vigor, equalizing through a well-placed cross from substitute Yaya Dukuly, leading to Archie Goodwin`s goal. Auckland`s protests regarding a potential foul on defender Callan Elliot were dismissed by VAR, allowing the match to remain level.

The drama escalated in stoppage time when Goodwin netted his second goal in the 95th minute, only for Auckland`s Logan Rogerson to head in an equalizer from a corner in the 100th minute. This thrilling finish kept Adelaide at the top of the table, with Auckland closely trailing in second. Goodwin expressed disappointment over the late equalizer, emphasizing the need for improved set-piece defending.

#AdelaideUnited,#AucklandFC,#ALeagueMen,#VAR,#ArchieGoodwin