LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
The Canberra Raiders are set to host the fourth-placed Brisbane Broncos this weekend, with GIO Stadium expected to be filled to capacity for Sunday afternoon's qualifying final.
Both teams are eager to secure a spot in the preliminary final, facing off for the first time since round two in hopes of advancing further in the competition.
The Raiders and Broncos have not clashed in finals since 1995, a time when stars like Laurie Daley, Brett Mullins, and Ricky Stuart represented the Raiders.
In their last encounter, the Raiders triumphed over the Broncos with a score of 32-22 at GIO Stadium in Canberra during round 2, 2025.
Since 1998, the Raiders have faced the Broncos 41 times, achieving 17 wins and 1 draw, resulting in a 41% success rate.
Key players from both teams are expected to dominate the match in the midfield, leading their sides in what promises to be an exhilarating week one finals matchup.
The Canberra Raiders have seen outstanding leadership over the years from captains like Mal Meninga, Ricky Stuart, and Laurie Daley. This season, Joseph Tapine has guided the Raiders to their first Minor Premiership since 1990 and is anticipated to elevate his game in the 2025 finals series.