Croydon Kings vs MetroStars - South Australia NPL

When Croydon Kings and MetroStars clash at the home ground on May 23, 2026, the stakes extend well beyond a single result — this is a South Australia NPL fixture that carries real weight for both clubs. Catch up with all the action from Chelsea's pre-season clash with AC Milan.

The standings paint a clear picture: Croydon Kings in 6th, MetroStars in 3rd, and both keen to climb. The hosts have mirrored the form of a side still searching for rhythm — LLDLD over their last five, a win rate of 36.36%. The visitors have been a steady presence on the road, LDWWW in their last five and a campaign win rate of 59.09%. Goals could be in short supply or plentiful — Croydon Kings average 2.09 per game to MetroStars's 2.41, and that gap may dictate the rhythm of the contest. The Saudi Pro League side have now placed a €45 million package on the table, while Watkins himself is understood to be open to making the move.

Tactically, the contest promises a fascinating contrast. Croydon Kings will look to impose their style on home soil, while MetroStars are likely to have ideas of their own about how to gain the upper hand. Schalke were third bottom for possession in winning the second tier, let alone facing Bayern.

In fixtures as finely poised as this one, it often comes down to who holds their nerve in the big moments — and both camps have players who relish that responsibility. The battle in midfield, where both sides look to control tempo, could prove the decisive arena. Chelsea have confirmed the signing of former Manchester United striker Danny Welbeck from Brighton.

The market has yet to form a strong view, and the contest looks genuinely difficult to call. Despite the home advantage enjoyed by Croydon Kings, the weight of evidence favours MetroStars — a 2-3 away win is the call. Whatever the outcome, the South Australia NPL fixture promises a meaningful contest with real implications for both clubs. In terms of outgoings, Perri seems closest to an exit, but that will likely have to wait until Trafford's mandated holiday after the World Cup is over or a No 2 arrives.