APIA chasing history as Parisi urges players to embrace Grand Final moment

APIA Leichhardt FC are 90 minutes away from completing a remarkable Premiership-Championship double, with coach Franco Parisi urging his players to embrace the opportunity when they face Sydney United 58 FC in Sunday’s 2026 NPL Men’s NSW Grand Final.

The Marronazzuri secured the Premiership after an outstanding regular season and now have the chance to claim back-to-back Championships following last year’s 2-1 Grand Final triumph over Rockdale Ilinden FC.

“It’s going to be an exciting game, the boys are embracing the opportunity and we can’t wait for the game on Sunday,” Parisi said.

APIA’s success in 2026 has extended well beyond their results, with the club continuing to develop and promote its young talent.

Max Court, Oscar Gonzalez and Presley Ortiz have all progressed to the A-League, something Parisi believes reflects the strength of the club’s environment.

“The season has been fantastic. Not only on the field but developing players and watching them grow and promoting our youth,” he said.

For Parisi, that success has been built on a culture that has become a defining feature of the club.

“The strong culture at APIA is a big reason for our consistency this season and throughout the history of the club,” he said.

“Success is built not just by results. It’s about what you do off the field and it’s fantastic to see our players grow and develop and more young players coming into first grade.”

That culture has been particularly important during a gruelling campaign featuring a heavy schedule and numerous mid-week fixtures.

“It’s been a long season, a lot of mid-week games but the guys show camaraderie and fight for each other,” Parisi said.

“We have a strong squad mentality and strong depth. There has been a lot of tough matches but we never give up.”

Standing in APIA’s way is a Sydney United side they know extremely well.

The two clubs have met numerous times this season, with Sydney United winning the Waratah Cup against APIA, and the final league meeting ending in a draw.

“Sydney United are a strong team and this season they are a different side under Miro Vlastelica,” Parisi said.

“It is always a tight, hard-fought game against them. Set pieces will be important and we need to take our chances.”

With APIA boasting the competition’s most potent attack and United possessing the best defensive record, Parisi believes the midfield battle could prove decisive.

“The midfield battle will be huge and will play an important part in the match. If we can control the midfield it will go a long way to winning the game,” he said.

Despite the magnitude of the occasion, APIA are determined to approach Sunday as a standalone contest.

“We believe in ourselves and we are taking it as a one-off game,” Parisi said.

For the Premiers, that means taking their opportunities when they come.

“It’s a huge moment for the club and for our history. We need to win the moments and take our chances,” Parisi said.

And as his players prepare for the biggest game of the season, Parisi has one final message.

“I leave the final message to the players but my final message half-an-hour before kick-off is to enjoy yourselves and enjoy the moment and embrace the opportunity,” he said.

After a season built on consistency, culture, youth development and a refusal to never give up, APIA now have one final opportunity to turn an outstanding campaign into a historic one.

The 2026 NPL Men’s NSW Grand Final will kick-off at 3pm on Sunday at St. George Venues Jubilee Stadium, with tickets for the match now available.

-By Joel Martelli