Get ready for a thrilling AFLW finals series that promises to be nothing short of electrifying! North Melbourne stands as the team to beat, aiming to secure back-to-back premierships in a feat that would cement their legacy in AFLW history. But here’s where it gets intriguing: just one week after a 49-point drubbing of Hawthorn in Round 12, Darren Crocker’s Kangaroos will host the Hawks again in the First Qualifying Final. And this is the part most people miss—Melbourne and Brisbane are also set to clash for the second time in as many weeks, adding an extra layer of unpredictability to the finals. Is this scheduling quirk a stroke of genius or a recipe for redundancy?
While the top four teams enjoy the luxury of a double chance, the remaining four face do-or-die scenarios from the outset, ensuring every match is packed with tension. Carlton, hosting West Coast in the Eagles’ historic first AFLW finals appearance, and Adelaide, seeking redemption against St Kilda after a Round 1 upset, are just two of the storylines that will keep fans on the edge of their seats.
But here’s the controversial question: Does the current finals format truly reward consistency, or does it inadvertently favor teams with momentum at the right time? Let’s dive into the fixtures and find out.
AFLW 2025 Finals Fixture Week 1 — Qualifying and Elimination Finals
- First Qualifying Final: [1] North Melbourne vs. [4] Hawthorn — Friday 7 November, 7:15pm at Ikon Park
- First Elimination Final: [5] Carlton vs. [8] West Coast — Saturday 8 November, 3:05pm at Ikon Park
- Second Qualifying Final: [2] Melbourne vs. [3] Brisbane — Sunday 9 November, 1:05pm at Ikon Park
- Second Elimination Final: [6] Adelaide vs. [7] St Kilda — Sunday 9 November, 3:05pm at Norwood Oval
Week 2 — Semi-finals
- First Semi-Final: Loser of First Qualifying Final vs. Winner of First Elimination Final
- Second Semi-Final: Loser of Second Qualifying Final vs. Winner of Second Elimination Final
Week 3 — Preliminary Finals
- First Preliminary Final: Winner of First Qualifying Final vs. Winner of Second Semi-Final
- Second Preliminary Final: Winner of Second Qualifying Final vs. Winner of First Semi-Final
AFLW Grand Final 2024
- Saturday 29 November
How the AFLW Finals System Works
The finals system is a knockout tournament with a twist. Winners of the Qualifying Finals advance to host the Preliminary Finals, while the losers get a second chance in the Semi-Finals. Each week, two teams are eliminated until the Grand Final. But is this format fair, or does it unfairly penalize teams that stumble early?
For instance, the loser of the First Qualifying Final hosts the winner of the First Elimination Final in the First Semi-Final, and so on. This structure ensures that only the most resilient teams make it to the Grand Final. Do you think this system truly crowns the best team, or does it leave too much to chance?
As the drama unfolds, one thing is certain: the 2025 AFLW finals will be a rollercoaster of emotion, skill, and strategy. Don’t miss a moment—watch every match LIVE and ad-break free on Kayo. New to Kayo? Join now and get your first month for just $1. [https://kayosports.com.au/?pg=afl&extcamp=fsaeditoriallinkafl-edt-fsp-lnk-awr-grc-afl-kyo&channel=fsa&campaign=fsacontra&voucher=]
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Now, we want to hear from you! Do you think North Melbourne can secure back-to-back premierships, or will an underdog rise to the challenge? And what’s your take on the finals format—fair or flawed? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
