LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Melbourne Storm vs Brisbane Broncos: NRL Grand Final Preview and Prediction
In a rematch reminiscent of the 2006 grand final, the Melbourne Storm and Brisbane Broncos will face off to vie for the 2025 NRL premiership.
The Storm are entering the game as significant favorites, a narrative that echoes the 2006 encounter, which certainly did not end favorably for Melbourne, as it culminated in Brisbane's last championship win.
While Brisbane has appeared in two grand finals since then, they suffered defeats in both, contrasting with the Storm's consistent success and frequent appearances in finals for the premiership title.
Starting the 2025 season, the Storm were widely regarded as frontrunners. Despite facing challenges, including limited opportunities to field their first-choice spine throughout the year, they secured the second position on the regular season table.
The Storm overcame the Canterbury Bulldogs and triumphed over the Cronulla Sharks in the preliminary final last Friday. Noteworthy is Jahrome Hughes, who returned to the field and delivered an impressive performance just 22 days after sustaining a broken wrist, playing a crucial role as the team gears up for the decisive match.
While Melbourne's presence in the grand final was anticipated, the Broncos' journey to this point was less expected at the season's onset.