Stefan Colakovski of the Phoenix in action against Central Coast Mariners, 2024. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
Auckland FC vs Western United
Kick-off: 5pm Saturday 21 December
Go Media Mt Smart Stadium
Live blog updates on RNZ Sport
Wellington Phoenix v Western Sydney Wanderers
Kick-off: 7pm Sunday 22 December
Commbank Stadium, Sydney
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A setback for the Wellington Phoenix with forward Stefan Colakovski suffering a season-ending injury.
Colakovski will miss the remainder of the men's A-League season after suffering a knee injury at training.
The 24-year-old Australian ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee and requires surgery.
Colakovski faces up to 12 months out of football.
He joined the Nix on a one-year deal in October, 10 days out from the start of the current season and has featured in Wellington's past six A-League matches as a second half substitute.
Wellington Phoenix head coach Giancarlo Italiano is devastated for Colakovski.
"We all feel for Cola," Italiano said. "He's fitted seamlessly into the squad and has become a popular member of the dressing room in no time.
"We were also starting to see glimpses of what he was capable of on the pitch as he got up to speed following his late arrival.
"We wish Cola all the best with his rehab and we're sure he'll come back stronger than ever."
The Phoenix are sixth on the A-League table with three wins from seven games.
They play at Western Sydney Wanderers on Sunday.
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