Tessa Lee, Sports journalist reporting on global leagues since 2021.
Geelong and Brisbane meet in a blockbuster Round 17 clash at GMHBA Stadium, with the second AFL Grand Final rematch of the 2026 season carrying significant implications for the race to the top four. Both teams entered the contest with identical 9 and 6 records, making Thursday night's match a pivotal opportunity to strengthen their finals position.
The Cats began the round in fourth place on percentage, while the Lions sat just outside the top four after rediscovering their best form with a commanding win over Sydney last week.
Top four race heats up
With the AFL ladder tightly packed, the result could have a major impact on the finals race.
Geelong entered the match holding a 9 and 6 record with a percentage of 120.6, but had won only one of its previous four matches.
Despite the recent dip in form, Chris Scott's side remained inside the top four entering Round 17, highlighting just how congested the ladder has become.
Brisbane also arrived with a 9 and 6 record and a percentage of 111 after an emphatic victory over the Swans that reinforced its premiership credentials.
The Lions had regained momentum at the perfect time and viewed the trip to Geelong as an opportunity to climb into the top four.
Grand Final rematch adds extra intrigue
The contest marks the second Grand Final rematch of the 2026 AFL season, adding another layer of significance to an already important fixture.
Meetings between Geelong and Brisbane have regularly produced high quality contests in recent years, with both clubs expected to feature prominently in the premiership race again this season.
A victory would not only provide valuable premiership points but also deliver an important psychological boost should the teams meet again during the finals.
Finals race remains wide open
The congested nature of the AFL ladder means even small shifts in form can dramatically alter a club's finals outlook.
Geelong is aiming to halt a difficult stretch after losing three of its previous four matches, while Brisbane is looking to build on the confidence gained from last week's dominant performance.
With both clubs firmly in the premiership conversation, Thursday night's result could prove one of the defining outcomes of Round 17.
