AFL preliminary final teams and expert tips: Skipper’s replacement named; Lions make a key call

The Sydney Morning Herald - Sep 17, 2026

Here are the all-important teams and expert tips for the cut-throat games on Friday and Saturday.

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Toby Greene's looming move from GWS to Geelong is the latest in a string of draft and trade successes for the perennial powerhouse Cats.

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When the time came to tell the football world that Toby Greene wanted to leave the Giants, a club boss decided the occasion deserved something special.

Subbies rugby player hit with three-year ban after contact with referee in grand final

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Lions coach Chris Fagan has torn up the form guide, insisting Brisbane’s dominant August win over Hawthorn counts for nothing.

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Sydney Swans make bold selection call for blockbuster preliminary final against Fremantle Dockers

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Premiership coach rules himself out of Kangaroos job

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The Dockers and Swans dominated the 2026 season, but, for different reasons, both hit the wobbles late in their campaign. Friday night’s preliminary final will prove who recalibrated best.

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