They think they have a better side, especially with Caitlin Foord out for Sydney.

After two-straight titles, they are hoping there's a fear factor at play.

They believe they're fitter, given the Sky Blues had to wrestle with extra-time in last weekend's semi-final win over Newcastle.

And they reckon they have a mental edge from their only in-season meeting, even though it was a 3-2 loss in round four.

"With the quality we have all over the pitch, if everyone plays their role, collectively we'll outplay them," ex-Sydney defender Alanna Kennedy said.

"Our best should be better than Sydney's best.

"If everyone's up for the match - and they should be, given it's a final ... we will do the job."

City are brimming with confidence ahead of the decider at Allianz Stadium.

Perhaps that's what winning two championships does for a side.

The first was achieved in stunning style, recording the only perfect season in Australian football history, before winning the grand final 4-1 over Sydney FC.

Last year's title came from fourth place, with wins on the road over premiers Canberra United and Sam Kerr's Perth Glory in the decider.

"We do know how to step it up when we need to. We've got big-game players," Steph Catley said.

"A lot of players have come through the finals last year. That knowledge of how to prepare and get over the line is very, very important."

Lydia Williams believes if City's defence - which has conceded in just one of their past six matches - can hold up over Sydney's attack, Patrick Kisnorbo's side will have enough to win.

The loss of Foord to a serious foot injury last week blunts Sydney's attack.

The Matildas' goalkeeper didn't play in City's last clash with Sydney, along with veteran midfielder Jess Fishlock.

She says if you add in Fishlock and visiting English pro Jodie Taylor, City are a different side.

"It helps that we were missing two of our players. It was a pretty close game so that's a good sign," she said.

"We're in a really good place in terms of our form. We've peaked at the right time and we think we can really take it to them."

Australian Associated Press