Hawthorn vs Brisbane Lions Preview & Prediction | 2026 AFL | Preliminary Final
by Trystan Pugh ·
Click here for today’s sports betting tips from our expert analysts!
The MCG plays host to the preliminary final as Hawthorn become the latest team to try and prevent Brisbane Lions winning a third straight premiership title.
Kick-off date/time:
How to watch on TV: UK – TNT Sports / USA – Some matches are televised on Fox Sports channels
How to watch online: UK – HBO Max & Watch AFL / USA – Watch AFL
The prediction
At the beginning of September, Hawthorn, who finished fourth in the ladder, became the first team in 2026 to beat Fremantle at Optus Stadium, with the Hawks recording a 32-point victory against the minor premiers in their qualifying final.
Captain James Sicily was instrumental in the 13-time champions' victory over Fremantle, but they must do it all again now against a side who remain in the hunt for a third successive premiership title.
The finals series did not get off to a positive start for Brisbane Lions, who lost to Sydney in their qualifying final, but they responded in champions fashion last weekend with a fine 53-point triumph against Adelaide at the Gabba.
The Lions' scoring power returned at just the right time, and with plenty of experience in their roster having gone back-to-back in the AFL, they possess an aura in crunch games that makes them difficult to back against.
Hawthorn may have the home advantage at the MCG, but the Lions have proven time and time again that they can rise to the biggest of occasions. This should prove to be a close affair, but we just edge the reigning champions.
Hawthorn vs Brisbane Lions tip: Brisbane Lions to win
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