Melbourne City FC's A-League season is on the line after a heartbreaking 7-6 penalty shootout loss to Auckland FC. The match, which kicked off at 5pm, ended nearly three hours later with Dan Hall's decisive kick. Steve Corica's men had taken the lead just before halftime through Guillermo May's brilliant header from a Jesse Randall corner. But Melbourne City FC's Medin Memeti managed to equalise with barely a minute to play, setting up the thrilling penalty shootout. Auckland FC's goalkeeper Michael Woud was the hero, saving from Nathaniel Atkinson in the phase before Hall's winner. The result means Auckland FC progresses to the semi-finals, where they will face Adelaide United in a two-legged contest. Melbourne City FC's Matt Leckie was prominent in the first half, using his physicality and vision to create chances. But it was Auckland FC's Randall who played a key part in the opening goal, a beautiful move from a corner. The second half was a tense affair, with Auckland FC sitting deeper and deeper as time ticked over. But they still had chances, with Logan Rogerson's header forcing a strong save from Patrick Beach. Andrew Nabbout had a late effort, but it was not enough to change the outcome. Melbourne City FC's manager will be disappointed with the result, but his team showed great spirit to push the match to a penalty shootout. The club's fans will be hoping for a stronger performance in their next match. Melbourne City FC's players will need to regroup and focus on their next challenge. The team's season is far from over, and they will be looking to bounce back from this defeat. The A-League elimination final was a thrilling match, with both teams giving it their all. In the end, Auckland FC's penalty shootout win was a deserved one, but Melbourne City FC will be disappointed to have come so close only to fall short.