AFL Grand Final 2025

AFL Grand Final 2025

The 2025 AFL Grand Final took place at the MCG on Saturday the 27th of September with the Brisbane Lions securing back-to-back Premiership wins with a 47-point victory over the Cats!

AFL Grand Final 2025 Info

  • 2025 AFL Grand Final Date: Saturday, September 27, 2025
  • Location: Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
  • Teams: Geelong Cats v Brisbane Lions
  • 2025 AFL Premiership Winners : Brisbane Lions (5th title)
  • 2025 AFL Grand Final Score: Brisbane Lions 122 – 75 Geelong Cats
  • Start Time (First Bounce): 2:30pm (AEST)

The AFL Grand Final, the pinnacle of the Australian Football League season, is a highly anticipated event for fans and punters alike. This year’s Grand Final promises to be no exception, with all your favourite teams vying for the coveted premiership and flag!

The Aussie Rules Football Grand Final match marks the culmination of the latest AFL season and is one of the biggest events on the Australian sporting calendar challenging even the iconic Melbourne Cup horse race at Flemington on the first Tuesday of November for attention! Introduced in 1901, the Grand Final has become a tradition in the VFL/AFL since 1931.

All 18 AFL clubs compete throughout the season with the ultimate goal of reaching the Grand Final and vying for the coveted McClelland Trophy.

As the season unfolds, keep an eye on the form of top contenders like Sydney, Port Adelaide, Greater Western Sydney, Brisbane, Geelong, and Western Bulldogs. These teams have consistently performed well throughout the season and are strong contenders for the next AFL Grand Final.

Betting on the AFL Grand Final offers a wide range of opportunities. You can bet on the outright AFL Grand Final winner, the margin of victory, individual player performances, and even the first goal scorer.

The Brisbane Lions are the latest team to win the AFL Grand Final in 2025 defeating the Geelong Cats 122-75 for their fifth Premiership success.

Explore the latest AFL Grand Final odds and betting markets now at the TAB NZ and bet behind your favourite team in this year’s decider! 

AFL Grand Final Fast Facts

  • First held: 1901
  • Mandatory with the VFL/AFL since: 1931
  • Latest AFL Grand Final Winners: Brisbane Lions (2025) defeated the Geelong Cats 122-75
  • Winning Team Awarded: McClelland Trophy, AFL Premiership Cup, and AFL Premiership Flag
  • Location: Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Melbourne, Australia since 1898
  • Most Premiership Wins: Essendon Bombers, Carlton Blues, and Collingwood Magpies with 16 each

When is the AFL Grand Final?

Traditionally held on a Saturday afternoon in late September or early October, the AFL Grand Final is the most popular sporting event in Australia. The AFL Grand Final date currently takes place the weekend before the NRL Grand Final with the season’s Rugby League decider held in Sydney.

It draws tens of thousands of spectators, vocal fans, big bets and lots of fun!

Where is the AFL Grand Final? 

The AFL Grand Final has predominantly taken place at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in Melbourne, Australia since 1898.

What do the AFL Grand Final winners get? 

The winning team is awarded the prestigious AFL Premiership Cup and Flag, while each player receives a gold Premiership Medallion.

The standout player of the match is recognised with the Norm Smith Medal, honouring former Melbourne player and coach Norm Smith. Since 2001, the winning coach has been awarded the Jock McHale Medal, named after the legendary Collingwood coach who holds the record for most Aussie Rules Premiership wins.

What time does the AFL Grand Final start?

Unlike the NRL where the game gets underway with a kick-off, the AFL Grand Final and all Aussie Rules matches start with a first bounce. The 2026 AFL Grand Final first bounce is set for 2:30pm (AEST).

Where to watch the AFL Grand Final

  • In person at the MCG in Melbourne as part of the usually 100,000 strong crowd
  • Live on Channel Seven
  • Streamed online on 7plus
  • Through Fox Footy
  • Through Kayo Sports

 

How to Bet on the AFL Grand Final

  1. Log in or sign-up with TAB NZ.
  2. Make a secure online deposit using one of the TAB NZ safe deposit methods.
  3. Check out the AFL Grand Final betting previews and our expert AFL Grand Final tips.
  4. Choose an AFL Grand Final bet to place. There are many more AFL Grand Final betting options available so make sure to check out our full AFL betting markets online.
  5. Select the AFL Grand Final team or player you want to bet.
  6. Select the bet now option or add to a multi then wait to see how your AFL Grand Final bets go!

Bet on the 2026 AFL Grand Final now!

Past VFL / AFL Grand Final Results

The VFL / AFL Grand Final has been contested 129 times since its inception, with Essendon and Carlton emerging as the most successful clubs, each claiming 16 premierships. Collingwood, with 15 premierships, stands just one title away from equaling this record but holds the unfortunate distinction of being runners-up 26 times. Notably, the Gold Coast Suns remain the only current AFL team yet to reach the Grand Final.

Since the league was renamed the Australian Football League (AFL) in 1990, Hawthorn has dominated, securing three consecutive premierships from 2013 to 2015.

The latest AFL Grand Final winning team was the Brisban Lions who secured their fifth Premiership in 2025 defeating the Sydney Geelong Cats 122-75.

See below for the full AFL Grand Final results including the AFL Grand Final winners, runners-up, winning Australian Rules Grand Final scores, and attendance records for AFL Grand Final games dating back to the year 2000.

Season
Winner
Score
Runner Up
Score
Venue
Attendance
2025
Brisbane Lions
18.14 (122) Geelong Cats
11.9 (75)
MCG
100,022
2024
Brisbane Lions
9.6 (60) Sydney Swans
18.12 (120)
MCG
100,013
2023
Collingwood Magpies
12.18 (90)
Brisbane Lions
13.8 (86)
MCG
100,024
2022
Geelong Cats
20.13 (133)
Sydney Swans
8.4 (52)
MCG
100,024
2021
Melbourne Demons
21.14 (140)
Western Bulldogs
10.6(66)
Optus Stadium
61,118
2020
Richmond Tigers
12.9 (81)
Geelong Cats
7.8 (50)
The Gabba
29,707
2019
West Coast Eagles
17.12 (114)
Greater Western Sydney
3.7 (25)
MCG
100,014
2018
West Coast Eagles
11.13 (79)
Collingwood
11.8 (74)
MCG
100,022
2017
Richmond
16.12 (108)
Adelaide
8.12 (60)
Melbourne Cricket Ground
100,021
2016
Western Bulldogs
13.11 (89)
Sydney Swans
10.7 (67)
Melbourne Cricket Ground
99,981
2015
Hawthorn
16.11 (107)
West Coast
8.13 (61)
Melbourne Cricket Ground
98,663
2014
Hawthorn
21.11 (137)
Sydney
11.8 (74)
Melbourne Cricket Ground
99,460
2013
Hawthorn
11.11 (77)
Fremantle
8.14 (62)
Melbourne Cricket Ground
100,007
2012
Sydney
14.7 (91)
Hawthorn
11.15 (81)
Melbourne Cricket Ground
99,683
2011
Geelong
18.11 (119)
Collingwood
12.9 (81)
Melbourne Cricket Ground
99,537
2010 (Replay)
Collingwood
16.12 (108)
St Kilda
7.10 (52)
Melbourne Cricket Ground
93,853
2009
Geelong
12.8 (80)
St Kilda
9.14 (68)
Melbourne Cricket Ground
99,251
2008
Hawthorn
18.7 (115)
Geelong
11.23 (89)
Melbourne Cricket Ground
100,012
2007
Geelong
24.19 (163)
Port Adelaide
6.8 (44)
Melbourne Cricket Ground
97,302
2006
West Coast
12.13 (85)
Sydney
12.12 (84)
Melbourne Cricket Ground
97,431
2005
Sydney
8.10 (58))
West Coast
7.12 (54)
Melbourne Cricket Ground
91,828
2004
Port Adelaide
17.11 (113)
Brisbane Lions
10.13 (73)
Melbourne Cricket Ground
77,671
2003
Brisbane Lions
20.14 (134)
Collingwood
12.12 (84)
Melbourne Cricket Ground
79,451
2002
Brisbane Lions
10.15 (75)
Collingwood
9.12 (66)
Melbourne Cricket Ground
91,817
2001
Brisbane Lions
215.18 (108)
Essendon
12.10 (82)
Melbourne Cricket Ground
91,482
2000
Essendon
19.21 (135)
Melbourne
11.9 (75)
Melbourne Cricket Ground
96,249

AFL Grand Final 2025 Betting Info & Odds

Current Odds for the Next AFL Grand Final

Current odds for the 2026 AFL Grand Final are led by the Brisbane Lions who are favourites to secure their third straight Premiership.

2025 AFL GRAND FINAL RESULT

Brisbane Lions (122) Defeated the Geelong Cats (75) by 47 Points

  • 2025 AFL Grand Final Date: Saturday September 27, 2025
  • 2025 AFL Grand Final Venue: MCG, Sydney 
  • 2025 AFL Grand Start Time: 2:30pm (AEST) 
  • 2025 AFL Grand Final Winners: Brisbane Lions (5th Premiership)
  • 2025 AFL Grand Final Result: Brisbane Lions (122) defeated the Geelong Cats (75) by 47 Points
  • 2025 AFL Runners-Up: Geelong Cats
  • 2025 AFL Grand Final Score: Brisbane Lions 122 – 75 Geelong Cats
  • Norm Smith Medallist: Will Ashcroft (Brisbane)

The Brisbane Lions are the 2025 AFL premiers after a commanding 47-point victory over the Geelong Cats in the Grand Final at the MCG, winning 122 to 75. After a tense first half that ended in a 36–36 deadlock, Brisbane exploded in the second half, kicking nine goals in the final term to seal back-to-back premierships and their fifth flag of the millennium.

Star Performers:

  • Charlie Cameron and Hugh McCluggage each kicked four goals
  • Zac Bailey added three goals from nine scoring shots
  • Lachie Neale made a surprise return from injury and kicked a crucial goal as the sub

Brisbane’s turnaround was remarkable, having lost to Geelong by 38 points just three weeks earlier in the qualifying final. Their midfield dominance and defensive pressure overwhelmed the Cats, whose stars like Patrick Dangerfield and Jeremy Cameron struggled to make an impact.

Visit our AFL Grand Final betting page at the TAB NZ for all the latest odds, betting options, markets and specials on the big game!

Teams Competing in the Grand Final

The teams competing in the 2025 AFL Grand Final are the Geelong Cats and Brisbane Lions.

The 2025 AFL Grand Final will be contested between the Geelong Cats and the Brisbane Lions at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Saturday, 27 September 2025, at 2:30 pm AEST. This is the first time these two teams have met in a Grand Final, though they faced each other three times earlier in the season.

Teams & Key Selection News

Geelong Cats

  • Key Out: Tom Stewart (concussion)
  • Possible Ins: Rhys Stanley (ruck) or Jed Bews (defender)
  • Other Watch: Jack Henry (lower leg) and Jack Martin (calf) are expected to play despite minor injuries.

Brisbane Lions

  • Key Watch: Lachie Neale (calf injury) is racing the clock to be fit. Jarrod Berry (shoulder) is in doubt.
  • Possible Ins: If Neale is out, James Tunstill or another fringe midfielder may come in.

The AFL Grand Final 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting contest, with several teams vying for the coveted premiership as the pointy end of the season approaches.

Betting on the AFL Grand Final gives you the chance to show your support, get behind your top teams, show off your Australian Rules football knowledge, and feel like you’re part of the 100,000 strong crowd at the MCG on Grand Final Day even if you can’t be there in person!

You can bet on the outright AFL Grand Final winning team, the margin of victory once the final AFL Grand Final whistle is blown, individual player performances like the highest AFL Grand Final goal-scorer, and even the first goal scorer to get points on the board after first bounce.

To place a smart bet on the AFL Grand Final it is crucial to look over the AFL statistics and consider things like:

  • Team Form: Analyse recent performances and momentum to see what AFL teams are tracking well for the big game.
  • Key Players: Assess the impact of star players and potential injuries including who is in or out of the AFL Grand Final team rosters.
  • Head-to-Head Records: Consider historical matchups between the teams and who has won the most games between the two.
  • Home Ground Advantage: Evaluate the potential advantage of playing at home or which clubs have the best record at the AFL Grand Final venue of the MCG in Melbourne.

By taking into account these factors and making the most of our expert AFL Grand Final tips at the TAB NZ sports blog, you can increase your chances of predicting the next AFL Grand Final Premiership winners!

Remember, the best time to bet on the AFL Grand Final is as the season progresses and teams solidify their positions on the AFL ladder. Stay updated on the latest Aussie Rules Grand Final odds and news to make sure you have a blinder this Grand Final Day!

Overview of the AFL Grand Final 2025

The 2025 AFL Grand Final will bring the 2025 Australian Football League season to a thrilling conclusion at the MCG on Saturday the 27th of September. The game promises to be an exciting clash between the season’s two top-tier teams who have worked their way through the home-and-away games and then the AFL Finals to make the decider.

Several teams are strong contenders for an AFL Grand Final berth in 2025, including the defending Premiers the Brisbane Lions and Hawthorn. These teams have consistently demonstrated strong form throughout past seasosn and are expected to be among the frontrunners for the 2025 Premiership Cup.

To watch the 2025 AFL Grand Final, viewers can tune in to Channel 7 in Australia or subscribe to streaming services that offer live coverage of AFL matches. For international fans, various online platforms may provide access to the game.

Betting on the AFL Grand Final is now open at the TAB NZ with the Brisbane Lions current pre-season favourites to take out the AFL Premiership again in 2025.

Stay updated on the latest AFL Grand Final odds, get the upper hand with our best AFL Grand Final tips when the date draws closer, enjoy the excitement of the AFL Grand Final as we witness the potential start of another team’s dynasty!

Key Dates and Event Schedule

As the AFL Grand Final date approaches, fans need to keep an eye out for some key dates on the annual Aussie Rules event schedule to make sure they don’t miss out on all the facts and stats for the final showdown!

The 2025 AFL Grand Final is set for Saturday, September 27, 2025, at the MCG, kicking off at 2:30 PM AEST. This marks the traditional date and time for the AFL’s showpiece event and is known among fans as “One day in September”, sharing the title with a famous football song.

Since 2015, the Friday before the AFL Grand Final has been officially declared a public holiday in Victoria, allowing fans to fully immerse themselves in the excitement and festivities surrounding the championship match.

The AFL Grand Final is steeped in tradition, with several iconic elements that contribute to its unique atmosphere. One of the most beloved traditions is the AFL Grand Final Parade, a colourful procession that takes place on the Friday before the match on the Victorian public holiday. The parade features the two competing teams, marching bands, cheerleaders, and floats, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere. Fans line the streets to witness this spectacle, which is a key part of the AFL Grand Final week’s schedule of events.

Important dates on this season’s AFL fixtures set to impact the Grand Final include:

Final Round: Round 24 of the regular home-and-away AFL season, where only eight clubs will still have Grand Final dreams alive, takes place on across the last weekend of August.

AFL Week 1 Finals: The two Qualifying and two Elimination finals for the first week of September footy narrow down the list of potential Grand Finalists with the top eight clubs in play.

AFL Week 2 Finals: Two Semi-Final AFL games play out in week two between the winners of the Elimination Finals and losers of the Qualifying Finals from the previous week.

AFL Week 3 Finals: The Semi-Final winners and Qualifying Final winners face off in two Preliminary Finals with the winners going on to play in the decider!

AFL Week 4 Finals: The Grand Final is the fourth week of AFL finals and runs on the last Saturday of September in 2025.

Brownlow Medal Count: The prestigious Brownlow Medal count and award ceremony naming the season’s best and fairest player takes place on the Monday of Grand Final week five days out from the Premiership match.

2025 AFL Grand Final Teams

Following the completion of the AFL home-and-away season the AFL teams still in the mix to make the Grand Final who finished in the Top 8 positions on the ladder will be updated here once Round 25 is done and dusted!

The AFL Grand Final teams are decided through a series of elimination and qualifying finals. The top two teams at the end of the home-and-away season qualify directly to the Preliminary Finals, while the next four teams compete in Elimination Finals. The winners of the Elimination Finals then face the losers of the Preliminary Finals in Semi-Finals, with the two winning teams advancing to the all-important Grand Final.

Sydney and Geelong have been dominant forces in recent years, reaching multiple AFL Grand Finals. Other teams with a strong history of success in the Grand Final include Richmond, West Coast Eagles, and Hawthorn. However, any team can make a surprise run and reach the Grand Final, adding to the excitement and unpredictability of the AFL season.

AFL Grand Final Betting Odds

The 2025 AFL Grand Final is shaping up to be a cracker, with some of the game’s top teams chasing a spot in the decider.

Early favourites for the 2025 AFL Grand Final include:

Brisbane Lions: With a strong depth of talent and the return of key players from injury, the Lions are looking to defend their 2024 premiership and avoid a premiership hangover.

Hawthorn Hawks: After a rapid rise under coach Sam Mitchell, the Hawks have added key recruits and boast a versatile squad, making them tough to beat.

Geelong Cats: The Cats have a balanced fixture and a strong mix of experienced and young players, positioning them well for another premiership run.

Carlton Blues: Despite past disappointments, the Blues have a star-studded lineup and are determined to finally break through and contend for the premiership.

Collingwood Magpies: With a blend of experienced players and emerging talent, the Magpies are aiming to bounce back from a disappointing 2024 season.

Sydney Swans: Under new coach Dean Cox, the Swans are looking to build on their grand final appearance and leverage their young, talented squad.

GWS Giants: The Giants have a potent forward line and a strong midfield, making them a formidable contender for the premiership.

Western Bulldogs: With a talented list and a ‘win now’ mindset, the Bulldogs are under pressure to capitalise on their current window of opportunity.

Popular Betting Markets

The AFL Grand Final offers a wide range of betting markets to cater to different preferences and strategies. Here are some popular options:

AFL Grand Final Betting Markets

  • Outright Winner: Bet on the team you think will win the AFL Grand Final and add their name to the Aussie Rules history books.
  • Margin of Victory: Bet on the margin of victory, such as by 1-15 points, 16-30 points, etc.
  • Individual Player Markets: Bet on players to score goals, kick the most disposals, or win the Norm Smith Medal.
  • Team Totals: Bet on whether a team will score over or under a certain number of points.
  • Head-to-Head Matchups: Bet on which team will win a specific match.

Remember, the AFL Grand Final is fast approaching, so be sure to place your bets early and enjoy the action!

AFL Betting Lines

Betting lines for the AFL Grand Final offer a variety of options for fans to bet on the exciting Premiership deciding match. Here’s a breakdown of popular betting lines and key considerations:

Line betting is a popular option for betting on the AFL Grand Final, offering fans a fun way to bet on the AFL Grand Final result while also putting their season knowledge and Aussie Rules football stats to the test! The line represents the point spread a team must win or lose by for your bet to be successful.

For example, if Sydney Swans are at +40.5 in line betting, they need to win by more than 40.5 points for your AFL bet to pay out. If they lose by 40.5 points or less, you miss out on collecting this time!

Line betting adds an extra layer of excitement and strategy to the AFL Grand Final especially, allowing you to bet on the margin of victory rather than just the outright winner and use the AFL statistics to help you place a smart bet on the game.

AFL Grand Final 2025 Betting Tips

The 2025 AFL Grand Final is shaping up to be a beauty, and AFL Grand Final 2025 betting tips will come flooding in once the 2025 AFL Grand Final teams are confirmed.

Favourites for the 2025 AFL Premiership: Brisbane Lions ($7 at time of publish) – BET NOW

The Brisbane Lions are favourites to win the 2025 AFL Premiership due to their newfound confidence after securing the 2024 premiership, which lifted the weight of previous finals failures. With a deep and talented roster, including key players like Lachie Neale and the return of crucial players from injury, the Lions are well-positioned for success. Coach Chris Fagan has instilled a resilient spirit in the team, and their strong defensive unit, balanced midfield, and fortress-like home ground at the Gabba make them a formidable contender for back-to-back premierships.

Value 2025 AFL Grand Final contenders: Collingwood Magpies ($10 at time of publish) – BET NOW

Determined to show that their 2024 slump was just a blip, the Magpies are entering the 2025 season with one of the AFL’s most formidable rosters. The Magpies have made several key changes for the 2025 AFL season to bounce back from their disappointing 2024 campaign. They have focused on returning to the “fast and free” ball movement that propelled them to the 2023 premiership. To bolster their squad, they recruited All-Australian defender Dan Houston from Port Adelaide and forward Tim Membrey from St Kilda. Additionally, the team has come back to pre-season training “nice and hungry,” with a renewed sense of purpose and determination to redeem themselves. Despite injury concerns for stars like Nick Daicos and Jordan de Goey, the Magpies are confident they will be ready for the opening round.

Underdogs not to discount in AFL Grand Final Betting: Sydney Swans ($9 at time of publish) – BET NOW

Despite the lingering effects of their back-to-back AFL Grand Final losses, the Sydney Swans are set to quietly make their mark early in the 2025 season. With Dean Cox introducing new strategies as head coach, this exceptionally talented squad is ready to rise to the challenge. The Swans have been diligently preparing for the new season with a strong focus on pre-season training and strategic adjustments. The team has worked hard to build on their existing strengths while addressing areas for improvement. Key players like Callum Mills and Isaac Heeney have had full pre-seasons, ensuring they are in peak condition to lead the team. The Swans have also focused on integrating new recruits and potential debutants, such as Jesse Dattoli and Riak Andrew, to add depth and versatility to their lineup. Additionally, the team has been fine-tuning their game plan to incorporate Cox’s fresh approach, aiming to enhance their competitiveness and resilience.

Tips for Betting on the Grand Final

Our exclusive tips for betting on the 2025 AFL Grand Final will be updated on the TAB NZ sports blog the week of the event so make sure you check out our insider analysis and predictions.

AFL Grand Final Betting Tips:

  • Back the in-form teams: The teams that have been performing well throughout the season are more likely to make it to the Grand Final and win, especially those who won by big margins and defeated powerhouse clubs across the past few months.
  • Consider the head-to-head record: Teams that have a good record against each other are more likely to do well in the Grand Final so make sure you look at the AFL Grand Final history and stats before placing your bet on this year’s event.
  • Look at the key players: If a team has a star player who is in good form, they are more likely to win, especially if that player won the Brownlow!
  • Don’t be afraid to bet on the underdogs: Sometimes, the underdogs can surprise everyone and win the Grand Final with the game throwing up plenty of upsets over the years so make sure you dig deep and put your knowledge to the test and not just side with the bookies!

AFL Grand Final History and Insights

The AFL Grand Final is a storied event steeped in tradition and excitement. Since its inception, the Grand Final has witnessed countless memorable moments and iconic clashes between the best Aussie Rules football clubs.

The Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), often referred to as the “Home of Football,” has played host to the Grand Final for the majority of its history. The AFL Grand Final is not only a sporting spectacle but also a cultural event, attracting passionate fans from across Australia with the attendance for the big game often exceeding 100,000!

The AFL Grand Final dates back to 1897. Some of the most successful teams in the Grand Final include Essendon, Carlton, Geelong, Richmond, and Hawthorn.

There have been many memorable Grand Finals throughout history, including the 1977 Grand Final between Collingwood and North Melbourne, which was decided by a single point. Another standout AFL Grand Final no fans from either side will forget in a hurry was the 2010 showdown between Collingwood and St Kilda, which was also decided by just one point!

Some of the most notable AFL Grand Final results include:

  • Essendon’s record-breaking 16 premierships
  • Carlton’s 16 premierships
  • The Magpies becoming the third AFL team to secure 16 Premiership wins in the 2023 decider
  • Geelong’s premiership drought from 1967 to 2007
  • Richmond’s three-peat from 2017-2019
  • West Coast Eagles’ premierships in 2006 and 2018

These are just a few examples of the many incredible VFL and AFL Grand Finals that have taken place over the years. The AFL Grand Final is a truly iconic event so make sure you get in on the action this year with a bet through the TAB NZ!

Past Winners and Historical Performances

The AFL Grand Final has witnessed countless iconic moments throughout its history. From dramatic comebacks to individual heroics, these matches have captivated fans and solidified the Grand Final’s place as a sporting icon.

A Century of Thrills: Iconic Moments in AFL Grand Finals

1903: Fitzroy’s Heartbreak

In the 1903 Grand Final, Fitzroy narrowly missed victory, losing to Collingwood by just two points. The game was decided in the final seconds, with Fitzroy’s captain missing a crucial set shot from directly in front of goal.

1910: The Great Brawl

The 1910 Grand Final was marred by a massive brawl between players from Collingwood and Carlton. While the incident led to suspensions, it also fuelled a long-standing rivalry between the two teams.

1913: St Kilda’s Near Miss

St Kilda staged a remarkable comeback in the 1913 Grand Final, narrowing a 25-point deficit to just two points with minutes remaining. However, a crucial missed opportunity cost them the victory, as a missed handball led to Fitzroy’s winning goal.

1918: Ryan’s Last-Second Heroics

Gerald Ryan’s dramatic goal in the final seconds of the 1918 Grand Final secured South Melbourne’s victory over Collingwood, sealing their premiership triumph.

1935: Pratt’s Tragic Absence

Bob Pratt, South Melbourne’s star full-forward, was tragically unable to play in the 1935 Grand Final due to an accident. Despite his absence, South Melbourne narrowly lost to Collingwood, highlighting Pratt’s significant impact on the team.

1945: The Bloodbath

The 1945 Grand Final became known as the “Bloodbath” due to its numerous brawls and fights. Ten players were reported and received lengthy suspensions, setting a benchmark for on-field violence.

1947: Stafford’s Winning Goal

First-year player Fred Stafford kicked the winning goal for Carlton in the final minute of the 1947 Grand Final, securing victory over Essendon.

1948: A Drawn Grand Final and Norm Smith’s Missed Opportunities

The 1948 Grand Final between Essendon and Melbourne ended in a draw, requiring a replay. Norm Smith, who would later have the best-on-ground medal named after him, missed two crucial chances to win the game for Melbourne in the final minutes.

1960: Collingwood’s Lowest Score

Collingwood’s 2.2 (14) score in the 1960 Grand Final remains the lowest score recorded in a VFL/AFL Grand Final, highlighting the challenging conditions and defensive struggles faced by the team.

Memorable Moments from Previous Grand Finals

The AFL Grand Final has witnessed some unforgettable moments in recent years, with several teams emerging as dominant forces. Sydney, Richmond, West Coast Eagles, Geelong, and Melbourne have showcased their prowess and claimed multiple premierships. These teams have left an indelible mark on the AFL Grand Final, captivating fans and delivering thrilling contests.

2025 AFL Grand Final: Brisbane Lions go Back-to-Back Beating the Cats

The Brisbane Lions cemented their status as a modern AFL powerhouse by claiming back-to-back premierships with a commanding 47-point victory over Geelong in the 2025 AFL Grand Final at the MCG. Led by a dominant midfield and clinical forward line, the Lions overwhelmed the Cats, who were missing key defender Tom Stewart due to concussion. Brisbane’s triumph marked their fifth AFL flag and their first consecutive titles since the early 2000s dynasty, with Lachie Neale and Joe Daniher among the standout performers. The win capped off a season of resilience and brilliance, confirming the Lions as the team to beat heading into 2026.

2024 AFL Grand Final: Brisbane Lions Destroy Swans by 60

The 2024 AFL Grand Final saw the Brisbane Lions easily account for the Sydney Swans in an impressive upset when claiming their 4th Premiership but their first in 21 years! The Lions went out the underdogs but came away victorious by 60 points with a 120 – 60 success at the MCG to go one better than their narrow loss to Collingwood the year before.

2023 AFL Grand Final: Magpies Edge Out Lions in Thriller

The 2023 AFL Grand Final delivered a nail-biting finish as the Collingwood Magpies narrowly defeated the Brisbane Lions by four points. The match, played at the MCG on September 30, was a thrilling contest that showcased the best of Australian Rules football. Bobby Hill was the star of the show for Collingwood, kicking four goals and earning the Norm Smith Medal for best on ground. Charlie Cameron and Joe Daniher also contributed significantly to Brisbane’s performance with three goals each. The Grand Final was a closely contested affair throughout, with both teams displaying skill, determination, and resilience. The Magpies’ victory marked their 16th premiership, tying the record held by Essendon and Carlton.

2022 AFL Grand Final: Cats Unleash Fury on Swans

Geelong Cats reigned supreme in the 2022 AFL Grand Final, dismantling the Sydney Swans with a commanding 20.13 (133) to 8.4 (52) victory at the MCG. Tyson Stengle led the charge for Geelong, kicking four goals, while Tom Hawkins and Norm Smith Medalist Isaac Smith each contributed three. The Cats’ dominance showcased their skill and determination, securing their long-awaited premiership title.

2021 AFL Grand Final: Dees End Drought

The Melbourne Demons snapped a 57-year premiership drought in 2021, delivering a resounding victory over the Western Bulldogs in the Grand Final. The Dees dominated the match, winning 21.14 (140) to 10.6 (66) at Optus Stadium. Christian Petracca starred for Melbourne, kicking the first goal and earning the Norm Smith Medal for his outstanding performance.

AFL Teams and Player Highlights

The 2025 AFL season, as always, will showcase exceptional talent and thrilling matchups. Several teams and players are predicted to standout, leaving a lasting impression on fans.

Key Players to Watch in the 2025 Grand Final

  • Lachie Neale (Brisbane Lions): As a two-time Brownlow Medalist, Neale’s leadership and ball-winning ability make him a crucial player for the Lions.
  • Tom Hawkins (Geelong Cats): The veteran forward continues to be a dominant force in the forward line, capable of turning games with his goal-scoring prowess.
  • Isaac Heeney (Sydney Swans): Known for his versatility and athleticism, Heeney’s impact in both the midfield and forward line will be vital for the Swans.
  • Patrick Cripps (Carlton Blues): The Blues’ captain and midfield powerhouse, Cripps’ ability to win contested possessions and drive his team forward is unmatched.
  • Nick Daicos (Collingwood Magpies): The young star’s elite ball use and game sense make him a key player for the Magpies, especially in high-pressure situations.
  • Marcus Bontempelli (Western Bulldogs): The Bulldogs’ captain and midfield maestro, Bontempelli’s leadership and skill set are essential for their success should they make the 2025 AFL Grand Final.

Team Form and Recent Performances

Below we will take a look at the standout teams from the 2025 AFL season ahead of the finals assessing their 2025 AFL Grand Final chances once the final round is done so stay tuned!

Stay updated on team form, player availability, and head-to-head records plus view our complete 2025 AFL Grand Final preview on game week at the TAB NZ sporting blog!

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