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Collingwood vs Brisbane Lions Preview & Prediction | 2025 AFL | Preliminary Final

by Andrew Tetley · September 17 2025, 21:15
Collingwood vs Brisbane Lions Preview & Prediction | 2025 AFL | Preliminary Final

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The last two AFL premiers, Collingwood and Brisbane, will lock horns in a monumental Preliminary Final, with the winner advancing to the 2025 Grand Final in a rematch of their epic 2023 decider.

Kick-off date/time:

How to watch on TV: UK – TNT Sports / US – Some matches are televised on Fox Sports channels

How to watch online: UK – discovery+ & Watch AFL / US – Watch AFL

The prediction

Collingwood is coming off a stunning 24-point Qualifying Final upset of minor premiers Adelaide at the Adelaide Oval. A dominant third-quarter surge and a brilliant defensive performance saw the Magpies book a home prelim final and a crucial week's rest.

Brisbane bounced back from the qualifying final loss to Geelong with a powerful 53-point demolition of Queensland rivals Gold Coast in the Semi-Final. The Lions' midfield depth was on full display as they booked their fourth consecutive prelim final appearance.

Key Players:

Collingwood's superstar Jordan De Goey was at his brilliant best in the win over Adelaide. The explosive midfielder was the catalyst for the victory, dominating the contest with 26 disposals, six clearances and a goal.

Brisbane's Josh Dunkley produced a monstrous defensive performance against the Suns. The tough midfielder completely shut down Gold Coast's engine room while setting a new AFL finals record with an incredible 18 tackles, showcasing his importance to the Lions' structure. 

Head-to-Head:

The two sides split their home-and-away encounters this season, with both teams winning on the other's home ground in a fascinating twist. Collingwood has a slight edge in recent history, having won 3 of the last 5 meetings, including the 2023 Grand Final.

This promises to be a blockbuster encounter between two battle-hardened teams who know each other's games inside and out. We think the Brisbane Lions can cause the upset and keep their quest alive for back-to-back premierships.

Collingwood vs Brisbane Lions tip: Brisbane Lions to win

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