Winner plays on, loser goes home

Brisbane and Adelaide meet in the AFL 2026 Semi-Final on Saturday, September 12. The survivor faces Sydney in the Preliminary Final next weekend.

“The winner advances to the Preliminary Final next weekend against Sydney, the loser is out.”

Brisbane arrive wounded

Chris Fagan's two-time reigning premiers were blown away by Sydney at the SCG, losing by 53 points. It was their heaviest defeat in 21 finals under him.

They have done this before

Twelve months ago Geelong hammered Brisbane at the same stage. The Lions then won three straight and beat the Cats in the Grand Final.

“Time for a repeat.”

Adelaide finally won one

The Crows held off a late Western Bulldogs rally to win 90-68, their first finals victory in nine years after a dismal campaign as minor premiers last season.

Defence built, attack needed

Matthew Nicks has 10 wins from 13 games on a solid rearguard. Izak Rankine decided the Bulldogs game, and the 26-year-old needs another big one.

“Izak Rankine was the difference against the Dogs last week.”

Free on Channel 7

Free-to-air Channel 7 shows the game in every Australian region, with live streaming on 7Plus. Signing up just needs a valid Australian postcode.

A VPN unlocks it anywhere

A VPN makes your device look like it is back home, so the free 7Plus stream works abroad. TechRadar's pick is NordVPN, currently up to 75% off.

“Not having a VPN is like leaving your front door wide open in a busy city.”

Paid routes outside Australia

US viewers get FS2 via Fubo, YouTube TV or Hulu + Live TV. The UK has TNT Sports 1 from £25.99 a month, and Canada has TSN2 or TSN Plus at CA$24.99.