In a pulsating clash that showcased the grit and flair of Victorian football, South Melbourne Hellas triumphed over a resilient Oakleigh Cannons outfit, clinching the 2025 Community Shield.
The battle unfolded at the pristine Home of the Matildas in Bundoora, culminating in a solitary but decisive strike from Nahuel Bonada, sealing a 1-0 victory for Hellas.
The pre-match hype surrounding this clash of titans didn’t disappoint. Oakleigh Cannons came out firing, dictating the tempo from the opening whistle. Their slick passing game and dynamic wing play stretched the South Melbourne defence, creating a flurry of nervy moments. However, the Hellas backline, marshalled by veteran defenders, held firm, repelling the Cannons’ advances with resolute tackles and crucial interceptions.
Despite weathering an early storm, South Melbourne Hellas offered glimpses of their attacking threat. Bonada, a livewire presence upfront, constantly harried the Cannons’ defense. His pace and trickery caused headaches, and he came agonisingly close to breaking the deadlock, his shot cannoning off the crossbar in a moment of near-brilliance.
The second half witnessed a tactical masterclass from South Melbourne Hellas coach Esteban Quintas. Recognising the need for a shift in momentum, he tweaked his formation and instilled renewed belief in his charges. The Blues emerged after the break with a renewed sense of purpose, wrestling control of the midfield battleground.Their tactical nous paid dividends in the 65th minute. Andy Brennan, a midfield maestro for South Melbourne, threaded a sublime through ball to Bonada, who coolly dispatched the ball past the onrushing keeper, sending the Hellas fans into raptures.
The goal ignited a tense finale. Oakleigh Cannons, stung by conceding, threw caution to the wind in search of an equaliser. They launched wave after wave of attack, but the South Melbourne defence, displaying unwavering resolve, stood tall. They defended stoutly, repelling every attack and holding onto their slender lead.
As the final whistle echoed around the stadium, South Melbourne Hellas emerged victorious, hoisting the Community Shield trophy and laying down a marker for the season ahead.

Speaking exclusively to Neos Kosmos after the game, a jubilant Esteban Quintas lauded his team’s resilience and tactical adaptability.
“It was a real arm-wrestle out there,” Quintas admitted. “Cannons are a top-quality side, and they put us to the sword in the first half. But we regrouped at halftime, made some crucial adjustments, and the players responded magnificently. Bonada’s goal was a piece of pure class, and it proved to be the difference. This is a fantastic way to kick off the season, but we’re not getting carried away. We know we still have areas to refine.”
The Community Shield triumph provides a massive boost for South Melbourne Hellas as they embark on their 2025 NPL campaign. With a well-balanced squad and a shrewd coaching team, they are undoubtedly among the frontrunners for the title.

The 2025 NPL season is shaping up to be a fiercely contested affair, with several teams vying for supremacy. South Melbourne Hellas, buoyed by their Community Shield success, will be aiming to mount a serious title challenge.
With a blend of seasoned campaigners and exciting young talent, Hellas possess the ingredients for a successful campaign. Their supporters will be hoping that this Community Shield victory is a sign of things to come. They’ll be dreaming of more silverware and a dominant season.