The report says Bayswater were National Premier Leagues WA champions in 2025 and are currently second in the state competition. They also qualified for the inaugural Australia Championship, narrowly missing the knockout stage on goal difference.
That record makes this more than a routine tie for Sydney. The A-League club may carry the stronger history, but Bayswater’s recent form and familiarity with Frank Drago Reserve could make the last-32 fixture uncomfortable. Sydney are reportedly entering the tournament as this season’s runners-up, adding expectation to an already eye-catching away assignment.
Western Australia’s other drawn fixtures create further interest:
Fremantle’s appearance is especially notable, with the report describing it as the club’s first qualification for this stage. The side is currently sixth in the NPLWA ladder, while Perth Glory provide the region’s other A-League representation.
The report says the 16 last-32 ties will be played across six days from 14 July, with the winners advancing to the last 16 in August. A national competition featuring a record 777 teams means these fixtures carry significance well beyond the professional game.
If the reported draw and schedule stand, Sydney’s visit to Bayswater will be the headline Western Australian tie. The next storyline will be whether the home side’s state-level momentum can survive its biggest test of the campaign.