Match: Collingwood Magpies vs Brisbane Lions
When: Saturday, 20 September 2025
Time: 5:15 PM AEST
Where: MCG
What’s at stake: A Grand Final spot. One game, no second chances.

🔎 Current Headlines & Where Things Stand

🔴 Brisbane Lions

  • Lachie Neale and Eric Hipwood out: Injuries in the Qualifying Final mean these two Lions stars are out for the year.
  • Midfield stepping up: Hugh McCluggage responded to the pressure with a 33-disposal performance in their semi-final win over Gold Coast. Josh Dunkley (18 tackles) and Will Ashcroft are also firing.
  • Motivation’s sky high: McCluggage and others have openly said that “last year’s flag isn’t enough.” This team is chasing legacy.

⚫ Collingwood Magpies

  • Jeremy Howe under the microscope: The veteran defender is managing an adductor injury and faces a fitness test at Friday’s main session. His selection remains 50-50.
  • Squad depth on standby: Defender Charlie West and forward Aiden Begg have been cleared to return if needed. West’s availability gives Collingwood backline cover.
  • Jordan De Goey finds rhythm: After an injury-marred season (soft tissue + concussion), De Goey has returned with strong impact in finals. His explosiveness through the middle could be a game-changer.

🔁 Key Match-Ups

Area Brisbane’s Challenge Collingwood’s Advantage
Midfield Replace Neale’s influence with depth: McCluggage, Ashcroft, Berry. De Goey, Pendlebury, Adams & crisp ball movement under pressure.
Forward 50 Without Hipwood, Brisbane need Rayner, Bailey and Cameron to deliver. Moore & Maynard lead one of the most structured defences in the league.
Ruck Battle Darcy Fort continues to perform. Collingwood will push through stoppages with centre break speed.
Pressure & Turnovers Brisbane must stay composed, especially in D50. Collingwood thrive on forcing turnovers and punishing quickly.

🧠 Final Thoughts

Collingwood are rested, experienced, and playing at the MCG. They’ve beaten Brisbane at this ground earlier this year (Round 6: 105–53). Brisbane, however, are still dangerous. Their midfield isn’t broken, just reshuffled. And they’re playing with the hunger of a side not done yet.

But the Lions’ double blow — no Neale, no Hipwood — makes this a steep hill to climb.

🔮 Prediction

  • Winner: Collingwood
  • Margin: 18–24 points
  • X-Factor: Jordan De Goey — if he breaks open the game, it’s over.
  • Wild Card: Cam Rayner — needs to play the game of his life for Brisbane to stay close.