Follow all the action from the Geelong v Brisbane match at GMHBA Stadium.
Will Ashcroft brings down Tom Stewart during the R17 match between Geelong and Brisbane at GMHBA Stadium on July 2, 2026. Photo: AFL Photos
FAMILIAR rivals Geelong and Brisbane open Round 17 in a showdown that could shape the top four in the race.
The Cats return from the bye, hoping to get their campaign back on track after three defeats by 14 points in four matches before the break.
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They can leapfrog the Lions in the race for a double chance with a win at their home fortress this week and then a winning run that includes seven matches against teams currently outside the top six.
Brisbane put their opponents on notice, returning from the bye to stun Sydney with the controlled, defense-focused performance that has become a trademark in the second half of recent campaigns.
Geelong v Brisbane at GMHBA Stadium, 7.30pm AEST
NO LATE CHANGES
The Lions now return to the ground where they broke a 21-year blight last season with the first of two remaining fixtures against teams currently in the top half.
While the Lions remained unchanged, the Cats returned star pair Bailey Smith and Tom Stewart, while George Stevens and Jack Bowes were dropped.