Fremantle vs Brisbane Lions Preview & Prediction | 2025 AFL | Regular Season | Round 23
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The second leg of Friday’s double-header promises to be a classic. Fourth-placed Fremantle can all but lock in a home qualifying final with a win, while fifth-placed Brisbane face a must-win to keep their top four hopes alive.
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
Fremantle (4th) showcased their trademark grit and resilience with a season-defining one-goal victory over Port Adelaide at the Adelaide Oval. The Dockers' ability to win tight contests has become a hallmark of their 2025 campaign.
Brisbane Lions (5th) are looking to bounce back from an unexpected two-point home loss against the Sydney Swans. The defeat was particularly concerning due to the performance of their defence, which conceded far too many marks inside 50.
Fremantle midfielder Caleb Serong was back to his brilliant best in the crucial win over Port Adelaide. He was a dominant force in the middle of the ground, finishing the match with 28 disposals, seven clearances, and a goal in a commanding display.
Brisbane Lions on-baller Josh Dunkley was a standout performer in a losing side against Sydney. He fought tirelessly against the tide, accumulating 31 disposals, 17 of them contested, along with seven tackles and a goal.
Recent history between these two sides is split, with home-ground advantage appearing to be a significant factor. Fremantle won the last encounter between the two clubs, a 23-point victory at Optus Stadium in Round 1, 2024. Prior to that, Brisbane had won both clashes in 2023.
This match presents a classic clash of styles: Fremantle's disciplined, structured defence against Brisbane's high-powered, attacking offence. The Lions' defensive frailties, exposed by Sydney last week, will be severely tested by a Fremantle side that thrives on control and pressure at their Optus Stadium fortress.
Fremantle vs Brisbane Lions tip: Fremantle to win by 1-39 points
