FFA Cup Semi Final: Key battles across the park

Western Sydney Wanderers and Adelaide United collide in a mouth-watering Westfield FFA Cup Semi Final tonight. We pinpoint three key battles which could help decide who reaches the final against Sydney FC.

Western Sydney Wanderers and Adelaide United collide in a mouth-watering Westfield FFA Cup Semi Final tonight.

You can grab tickets to the match at the Gates or buy online here.

We pinpoint three key battles which could help decide who reaches the final against Sydney FC.

ERSAN GULUM V JUMPEI KUSUKAMI

The Australian-born Turkish international defender has brought a solidity and hard edge to an Adelaide United side that leaked 46 goals in the last Hyundai A-League season.

Meantime, Japanese front-man Jumpei Kusukami scored in his side’s opening match of the season, with his energy and pace a constant threat down Wanderers’ right-hand side.

If Gülüm can keep Jumpei contained, the Reds will have nullified one of Western Sydney’s key attacking weapons.

JOHAN ABSALONSEN V CHRIS HERD

The Danish winger has caught the eye very early in his time in Australia, scoring in both of his side’s opening two Hyundai A-League outings, as well as in the Westfield FFA Cup.

Former Caltex Socceroos utility Herd may be given the job of shadowing Absalonsen with a view to blunting his effectiveness and forcing the Reds to find alternative attacking avenues.

KARIM MATMOUR V KEARYN BACCUS

Adelaide United’s new Algerian midfielder has a bag full of tricks which have been on full display during the Reds’ run to the semi-finals.

His cheeky rabona attempt which hit the crossbar was one of this year’s most memorable cup moments.

Baccus has become a key member of Hayden Foxe’s midfield and will have Matmour in his sights as he seeks to help guide his side to the final.

This article was originally published at: www.theffacup.com.au/news/ffa-cup-semi-final-key-battles-across-park