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Sydney AFL win over Brisbane
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
Sydney Swans beat Brisbane Lions in AFL qualifying final on Sep 5, 2026. The win puts Sydney one match from a grand final.
Background
Sydney and Brisbane met in the AFL qualifying final after a season of contrasting fortunes. Brisbane had won 10 of their last 11 matches, while Sydney had a strong record against weaker teams but struggled against top-six sides. Sydney entered the match without five key players due to suspension, including Isaac Heeney and Chad Warner.
How it unfolded
- Sep 1, 2026A preview highlighted Sydney's Round 1 win over Brisbane and Brisbane's Round 16 revenge, setting up the finals clash.
- Sep 3, 2026Sydney announced one change to its team for the qualifying final.
- Sep 4, 2026Odds and predictions favored Brisbane by 35 points, citing Sydney's poor record against top-six teams.
- Sep 5, 2026Sydney defeated Brisbane in the qualifying final, advancing to within one match of the grand final. Callum Mills was suspected to have suffered an injury.
Who’s saying what
- Analysts
- Predicted Brisbane to win by 35 points due to Sydney's undermanned squad and poor record against top-six teams.
- Coach
- Sydney's coach was 'lost for words' in the emotional triumph, highlighting the team's resilience.
Still unverified
Callum Mills' injury is suspected but not confirmed.