Story of the FFA Cup 2018: Round of 16

Has there been an FFA Cup like this one?

With underdog stories, memorable performances and classic goals, Australia’s premier cup competition has thrilled the country from start to finish in 2018.

We’re re-living the story of the FFA Cup 2018 during the build-up to the Final between Sydney FC and Adelaide United – come with us as we review the Round of 16!

READ: The best NPL players from the FFA Cup 2018

READ: FFA Cup holders in ominous form ahead of Final

FAIRY TALE: Story of the FFA Cup 2018, Round 32

Sekiya and APIA defeat Melbourne Victory

There’s no doubt about it – the Round of 16 belonged to APIA Leichhardt Tigers.

The former national powerhouse and NPL NSW side put itself back into the national spotlight after producing an incredible 3-2 upset win over reigning Hyundai A-League Champions Melbourne Victory.

Japanese star Tasuku Sekiya’s brace proved the inspiration for Billy McColl’s side.

The night looked at one stage that it might belong to his national compatriot Keisuke Honda, but a double from APIA’s pint-sized magician followed by a late Nathan Millgate header secured one of the FFA Cup’s best ever upsets.

Sydney clubs dodge bullets

Incredibly, both Sydney FC and Melbourne Victory were down 1-0 at half-time in their respective matches on matchday one of the Round of 16.

With Sekiya’s brilliance putting Victory to the sword, it was Ryan Cavanah who hit a wonderful opening goal early on for Cairns to put Cup holders Sydney FC in a precarious position.

It looked as though the FFA Cup night of nights would take place.

It wasn’t to be though, as Sydney FC fought back through Alex Brosque’s penalty and a Trent Buhagiar strike.

Sydney’s derby rivals Western Sydney were also put under the pump.

A goal for Alexander Baumjohann had the Wanderers cruising against Bonnyrigg White Eagles, but a great free-kick from Tynan Diaz ensured a frantic end to the second half.

But a captain’s header from Brendan Hamill ensured the Wanderers would progress through to the next round after withstanding another nervy finish.

Victorian pair march on in style

While APIA Leichhardt and Bentleigh Greens’ giant-killing performances stole the headlines for the Member Federation clubs in this year’s FFA Cup, flying under the radar were NPL Victoria duo Avondale and Heidelberg United.

Avondale had rifled four past Marconi Stallions in the Round of 32 and the free-spirited Avengers made it another four at home to Devonport City in the Round of 16.

Of many star performers, Elvis Kamsoba will live long in the memory – not just for his lightning trickery, but for that memorable back-flip celebration.

Avondale’s attacking nous was matched by NPL Victoria rivals Heidelberg United, who made a statement win against Adelaide Comets.

Sean Ellis was the standout of that 4-0 win, as the Scotsman reminded everyone why he might just wield one of the best left feet in the country.

Fornaroli’s heroics down Newcastle Jets

Make that two sensational FFA Cup goals in two starts for the Uruguayan.

Having hit a remarkable winner for Melbourne City against Brisbane Roar in the Round of 32, Fornaroli was up to his old tricks again.

This time, the striker finished off a slick City passing move with an emphatic curling finish in the top corner.

At the time, City looked like strong possibilities to go all the way with Fornaroli in this kind of form. Unfortunately, things would take a reverse when he missed a penalty in the Quarter Finals against Western Sydney Wanderers.