Newcastle Jets Make History: Champions of the Hahn Australia Cup 2025

In a stirring display of grit, flair and never-say-die spirit, the Newcastle Jets have lifted the Hahn Australia Cup for the very first time. Their 3-1 extra-time victory over Heidelberg United at Melbourne's Lakeside Stadium on 4 October 2025 marks a landmark achievement in the club's history.

This triumph ends a 17-year silverware drought for the Jets, their last major honour having been the A-League title in 2008. More than that, it elevates the club's ambitions, gives the fans a moment to cherish, and underscores a rising momentum for Newcastle's footballing future.

The Road to Glory - Hahn Australia Cup 2025

Group Stage to Knockouts

The Jets’ path to the final was anything but easy. After securing a 2–1 win over Adelaide United in the Round of 32 under new coach Mark Milligan, they kept momentum rolling.  In the quarter-finals, the Jets emphatically defeated defending champions Macarthur FC 3–0 — with goals from Max Burgess, Will Dobson and Kota Mizunuma. 

In the semi-final, Newcastle edged past Avondale FC 4–2 in a dramatic comeback.

Having raced to a 2–0 lead early, the Jets were pegged back, but substitutes Eli Adams and Alex Nunes delivered late goals to seal a place in the final.  That victory set the stage for an unforgettable showdown with Heidelberg United.

The Final: Drama, Resilience & Redemption

Heidelberg made a dream start, scoring as early as the 8th minute through a headed finish by Ryan Lethlean.  But the Jets responded in kind. In the 21st minute, Max Burgess struck a deflected shot past the Heidelberg keeper to level the match. 

The remainder of regular time was tightly contested and saw key chances for both teams. When the whistle blew after 90 minutes, the score remained 1–1, prompting a tense extra-time period. 

Six minutes into extra time, teenage substitute Oscar Fryer curled a sublime effort into the net, giving the Jets a 2–1 lead.  Then, in the 115th minute, Ben Gibson capped off the night, drilling home a composed finish to make it 3–1 and put the contest beyond doubt. 

The night was not without drama — both teams finished with 10 men after red cards to Jets captain Kosta Grozos and Heidelberg’s Anthony Theodoropoulos. 

What This Victory Means for Newcastle

A Long-Awaited Silver Lining

For many in the Jets faithful, this win is more than a trophy — it’s vindication. The club has faced lean years, periods of instability, and the weight of expectation. That this day was realized is a testament to patience, planning, and belief.

A Ticket to Asia

By claiming the Australia Cup, Newcastle Jets qualify for the 2026–27 AFC Champions League Two — offering not only international exposure for the club, but also a platform for the players to test themselves beyond Australia. 

A New Era Under Mark Milligan

This success arrives early in Mark Milligan’s tenure. A former Socceroo legend turned coach, Milligan voiced before the final that winning the Cup could “bond this group forever.”  His leadership has already reinvigorated the squad and given fans renewed hope. 

Legacy of Youth & Impact Substitutions

The way Fryer and Gibson seized their moments speaks to the depth and versatility in the squad. The willingness to trust young players in critical moments paid dividends.

Looking Ahead

The challenge now is sustaining this momentum. The A-League season looms, and with silverware now in the cabinet, expectations will follow. But one thing is clear: the Newcastle Jets are not just celebrating a historic win — they’re sending a message that their ambitions have shifted.

Future opposition will now see Newcastle as genuine contenders, domestically and abroad. For the fans, there is renewed belief. And for the club, this Cup is not just a trophy — it may well be the springboard to greater heights.