Sydney Olympic and South Melbourne set for derby showdown at Jubilee Stadium

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Football fans are in for a treat on Saturday, November 1, as Sydney Olympic and South Melbourne – two of Australia’s most storied Hellenic-heritage clubs – reignite their rivalry at Netstrata Jubilee Stadium for another thrilling chapter in the Australian Championship.

The clash comes just weeks after the two sides met at Melbourne’s Lakeside Stadium in early October for the opening round of the Australian Championship, and nearly a year after their historic showdown at Jubilee for The Greek Herald Cup.

South Melbourne supporters in full voice during The Greek Herald Cup at Jubilee Stadium - when the two Greek-Australian giants last met in Sydney.
South Melbourne supporters in full voice during The Greek Herald Cup at Jubilee Stadium – when the two Greek-Australian giants last met in Sydney. Photo: The Greek Herald / Andriana Simos.

This weekend, the rivalry returns home to Sydney – and it’s more than just football. Gates open at 2:15 p.m., with kick-off at 3:15 p.m., and fans are invited to enjoy a full day of Greek spirit, family fun, and sporting pride.

A celebration of football and community

Before kick-off, George Karantonis will perform the Greek and Australian national anthems, while Marios Evripidou will ignite the crowd with live bouzouki performances – filling the stands with rhythm, energy and kefi before the match, at halftime and after the final whistle.

Adding to the spectacle, there will be Greek dancing, traditional BBQ aromas, ice-cream stalls, and activities for children including free face painting, hair braiding, and football skill stations.

Greek dancers to take centre stage, setting the rhythm and spirit for Sydney Olympic’s clash against South Melbourne.
Greek dancers to take centre stage, setting the rhythm and spirit for Sydney Olympic’s clash against South Melbourne. Photo copyright The Greek Herald / Andriana Simos.

The stadium will come alive with blue and white flags, music and cheer – transforming Jubilee into a vibrant celebration of Greek culture and football passion.

Sydney Olympic President Damon Hanlin says the match is about more than rivalry, “Whenever we face South Melbourne, there’s extra energy in the air. It’s a rivalry built on respect and history, but our focus is clear – to play strong, smart football and make Jubilee a fortress for our supporters.”

L to R: Sydney Olympic President Damon Hanlin, South Melbourne Co-Presidents, Bill Papastergiadis and Andrew Mesourouni.
L to R: Sydney Olympic President Damon Hanlin, South Melbourne Co-Presidents, Bill Papastergiadis and Andrew Mesourouni. Photo: The Greek Herald.

Legends and VIP event

After the final whistle, celebrations will continue in the Captain’s Lounge with a special VIP reception honouring Sydney Olympic’s legendary players and officials – including Peter Katholos, Chris Kalantzis, Jason Culina, Harry Michaels, Pablo Cardozo, Roger Sleeman and many others who have proudly worn the blue and white.

The evening will feature food, drinks and tributes, creating a nostalgic atmosphere that bridges the club’s proud past with its exciting present.

Young fans waving the Greek flag at The Greek Herald Cup in 2024 — capturing the pride and passion that continue to unite generations of supporters.
Young fans waving the Greek flag at The Greek Herald Cup in 2024 — capturing the pride and passion that continue to unite generations of supporters. Photo: The Greek Herald.

A rivalry that defines generations

With South Melbourne currently leading Group A of the Australian Championship and Sydney Olympic chasing valuable points, the stakes are high – but so is the excitement. Fans from both Sydney and Melbourne are expected to fill Jubilee Stadium in a sea of blue and white, rekindling a football rivalry that has defined generations.

Bring your family, your flags, and your passion and be part of another unforgettable Sydney Olympic vs South Melbourne derby this Saturday at Netstrata Jubilee Stadium.

Event details:

  • Date: Saturday, November 1
  • Venue: Netstrata Jubilee Stadium, Kogarah
  • Gates Open: 2:15 p.m.
  • Kick-off: 3:15 p.m.
  • Entertainment: Live bouzouki music by Marios Evripidou, national anthems by George Karantonis, Greek dancing, food stalls, kids’ activities and more.
  • Tickets: Available here

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