Esteban Quintas is no longer head coach of South Melbourne, following a crushing 3-0 home defeat to Heidelberg United on Sunday.
While no official statement has yet been released, sources have confirmed to Neos Kosmos that the Latin American coach has parted ways with the club. His exit appears to have been in motion even before kick-off.
Quintas’ behaviour ahead of and during the match raised eyebrows, with the coach embracing staff members around the pitch before the game in what seemed like emotional farewells. Throughout the game—and even after the final whistle—his calm and subdued manner was uncharacteristic, suggesting the decision had already been made.
South Melbourne’s performance reflected the turbulence behind the scenes. Heidelberg United, coached by Giannis Anastasias, dominated from start to finish in what was their fifth consecutive win.
Despite the first half ending 0-0, the scoreline masked South’s struggles. The home side registered just two shots in the entire 90 minutes, a statistic that underlines a performance described as “disastrous” by club insiders.
In contrast, Heidelberg were clinical and composed. They attacked at will and broke through with three second-half goals: Alexis Lesiotis in the 58th minute, Jacob Buach in the 70th, and Akinari Yokokawa sealing the win in the 84th.
Coach Anastasias was full of praise for his team’s second-half display, which saw them convert flair into substance and secure a commanding victory.
The 3-0 result sends a clear message to the rest of the NPL—Heidelberg are serious title contenders and won’t be pulling any punches this season.
As South Melbourne now face uncertainty and regroup without Quintas, Neos Kosmos will continue to bring readers the latest from the ever-dramatic world of Victorian NPL football.
Full-time score:
South Melbourne 0 – 3 Heidelberg United
Scorers: 58′ A. Lesiotis, 70′ J. Buach, 84′ A. Yokokawa
