Brisbane Lions Advance to AFL Grand Final After Defeating Collingwood
The Brisbane Lions have secured their place in the 2025 AFL Grand Final, defeating collingwood in the first Preliminary Final. The Lions’ victory sets up a highly anticipated decider next Saturday, with a potential boost to their lineup as dual Brownlow medallist Lachie Neale eyes a miraculous return from a calf injury.
Collingwood fought hard,with a player demonstrating significant competitiveness throughout the match,recording three goals and four marks. However, it wasn’t enough to overcome a steadfast Brisbane side. The Lions entered the preliminary final with an unchanged lineup, but the prospect of Neale’s inclusion has injected further excitement into their grand final preparations.
Ahead of the Grand Final, Brisbane football boss Danny Daly indicated Neale had a “big chance” to play if the Lions were successful against Collingwood.”He is ticking all the boxes plus more, to be honest. We have to win but if we do, he’s a big chance. So far, so good for him,” Daly told Fox Footy reporter Jon Ralph.
Following the win, Neale himself expressed confidence in his recovery, stating he believed he’d be cleared to play. “It was one of the hardest sessions I have ever done and got through it fine,” he saeid in a post-match interview with Ralph. “I think I should confer with the doctor, but I think I have been given the all clear.”
Neale’s potential return presents a selection challenge for the Lions as they prepare to face their Grand Final opponent.