Collingwood vs Brisbane Lions
Friday 21 August 2026, 7:40pm AEST
Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)
The 2023 Grand Finalists meet again under the Friday night lights as Collingwood takes on the Brisbane Lions at the MCG in one of the standout matches of AFL Round 24.
With the finals just around the corner, both clubs have plenty to play for. Collingwood will be looking to build momentum ahead of the new Wildcard Round, while Brisbane has its sights firmly set on securing a top-four finish.
For footy fans, it has all the ingredients of an early taste of September.
Collingwood looking to build momentum before finals
Collingwood enters Round 24 after a thrilling draw against Hawthorn at the MCG, fighting back from 21 points down during the final quarter.
The result confirmed that the Magpies will feature in the Wildcard Round, but their exact finals match-up will also depend on what unfolds elsewhere across the final round.
That makes Friday night an important opportunity for Craig McRae's side to build momentum before their finals campaign begins.
Collingwood has shown throughout the season that its experience and ability to perform under pressure can make it dangerous against any opponent. Another big Friday night performance would send a timely reminder to the rest of the competition.
Brisbane chasing a top-four finish
The equation carries even greater significance for Brisbane.
The Lions enter the final round firmly in the battle for a top-four position and the valuable double chance that comes with it.
A victory at the MCG would strengthen Brisbane's position considerably, while defeat could leave its finals destination dependent on results elsewhere across Round 24.
Brisbane comes into the match in strong form after a convincing victory over Gold Coast and now faces one of its biggest tests before September.
Winning at the MCG against Collingwood would be the perfect preparation for what lies ahead.
A Grand Final rematch at the MCG
There is also plenty of recent history between these two clubs.
Collingwood and Brisbane famously contested the 2023 AFL Grand Final at the MCG, with the Magpies prevailing in one of the great modern Grand Finals.
Three years later, the stakes are different, but another Collingwood vs Brisbane clash at the MCG should bring a finals-like atmosphere.
Friday night football, two premiership contenders and September just around the corner.
It doesn't get much better.
Collingwood vs Brisbane tickets
For fans wanting to experience the action live, Collingwood vs Brisbane tickets at the MCG are available through Ticketverse, with a range of seating and premium hospitality options.
Whether you're backing the Magpies, travelling south with the Lions or simply looking for a huge Friday night of AFL football, this shapes as one of the matches of the round.
Collingwood vs Brisbane. Friday night at the MCG. Tickets? Sorted.
Collingwood vs Brisbane FAQs
When is Collingwood vs Brisbane?
Collingwood plays the Brisbane Lions on Friday 21 August 2026, with the match scheduled to begin at 7:40pm AEST.
Where is Collingwood vs Brisbane being played?
The match will be played at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in Melbourne.
What round is Collingwood vs Brisbane?
Collingwood vs Brisbane is part of Round 24 of the 2026 AFL Premiership Season, the final home-and-away round before the Wildcard Round and AFL Finals.
Why is Collingwood vs Brisbane important?
Both clubs are preparing for finals, but their circumstances are different. Collingwood will play in the Wildcard Round, with other Round 24 results helping determine its opponent. Brisbane is fighting for a top-four finish and the double chance.
Are Collingwood and Brisbane both playing finals?
Both clubs are in the top 10 heading into Round 24. Under the 2026 AFL finals system, the top six progress directly to the traditional finals series, while teams finishing seventh to 10th compete in the Wildcard Round for the final two positions in the top eight.
Did Collingwood and Brisbane play in the 2023 AFL Grand Final?
Yes. Collingwood defeated Brisbane in the 2023 AFL Grand Final at the MCG, making this Round 24 meeting another chapter between two clubs with plenty of recent history.
Where can I buy Collingwood vs Brisbane tickets?
Fans looking for Collingwood vs Brisbane tickets can explore available seating and premium hospitality options through Ticketverse.
What time does Collingwood vs Brisbane start?
The first bounce is scheduled for 7:40pm AEST on Friday 21 August 2026 at the MCG.