The stage is set for an exciting clash in the 2025 NRL Premiership as the South Sydney Rabbitohs prepare to take on the Brisbane Broncos tonight at Accor Stadium. With kickoff scheduled for 8:00 PM AEST, both teams are looking to turn their fortunes around after recent struggles.
Brisbane coach Michael Maguire has made several significant changes in a bid to halt a disappointing losing streak. Hookers Billy Walters and Cory Paix face a critical 80 minutes against the Rabbitohs, with one of them likely to be dropped next week if their performance does not improve. In a late change, Maguire has opted for Brendan Piakura to start, moving Xavier Willison to the bench.
Adding to the intrigue, the Broncos welcome back Ezra Mam after a nine-game suspension in the Queensland Cup. Mam's return is expected to bolster the side's stuttering attack, but his performance tonight will be crucial, especially if Brisbane suffers another defeat. If Mam performs well, it could lead to a reshuffle, potentially moving Ben Hunt to hooker next week.
On the other side, the Rabbitohs are also looking for a much-needed win to avoid a fifth consecutive loss. The return of star fullback Latrell Mitchell is a significant boost for coach Wayne Bennett’s squad. Mitchell, who has been out due to injury, is set to lead his team against the Broncos, adding experience and skill to the backline.
Jamie Humphreys also returns to the side at halfback after recovering from a hamstring injury, further strengthening the Rabbitohs' lineup. The Rabbitohs have made several adjustments to their squad, including Jye Gray wearing the No. 14 jersey and Siliva Havili stepping in at hooker after Peter Mamouzelos was ruled out with an elbow injury.
In terms of positional changes, Euan Aitken has moved to the back row from the centers, while Fletcher Myers has been named on the wing. Jai Arrow has shifted to prop, with Junior Tatola dropping to the reserves. Keaon Koloamatangi will also see action in the front row alongside Arrow, displacing Sean Keppie from the starting side.
As both teams finalize their preparations, the excitement builds for what promises to be a thrilling encounter. The Rabbitohs and Broncos have confirmed their lineups, and fans are eager to see how these changes impact the game.
With both teams desperate for a win, the atmosphere at Accor Stadium is expected to be electric. Fans of the Rabbitohs will be hoping that the return of Mitchell can spark a turnaround, while Broncos supporters will be looking for a strong performance from their hookers to secure a vital victory. This matchup not only carries playoff implications but also highlights the fierce rivalry between these two NRL clubs.
As the clock ticks down to kickoff, all eyes will be on the field. Will the Rabbitohs break their losing streak, or will the Broncos find the form they desperately need? Tune in to find out!