Two powerhouses collide in the NRLW Grand Final
The 2025 NRLW season has delivered a grand final for the ages as the Brisbane Broncos meet the Sydney Roosters at Accor Stadium. The Roosters arrive with an undefeated season tally and back-to-back titles in their sights, while the Broncos chase a fourth premiership to join their early-epoch hat-trick run. This game isn’t just a championship; it’s a showcase of elite women’s rugby league, featuring some of the sport’s biggest stars on a single stage.
Where the teams stand going in
The Roosters’ bid centers on maintaining their flawless form, their cohesion and relentless attack tested by a Broncos side that has learned from every close call this season. Broncos coach Scott Prince has built a unit known for its experience, precision and grit, while Roosters mentor John Strange calls on a blend of youth and proven winners to navigate the pressure of a grand final.
Key matchups to watch
On the field, the duel between Tamika Upton, Julia Robinson and Gayle Broughton for the Broncos and Isabelle Kelly, Jocelyn Kelleher and Olivia Kernick for the Roosters will shape the tempo. Upton’s steadiness and Robinson’s evasion will test the Roosters’ defense, while Kernick’s creativity could unlock line breaks. For the Roosters, Kelly’s experience and Kelleher’s pace offer a different kind of threat, aiming to expose any gaps in Brisbane’s edge defense.
First-half highlights that set the tone
As the whistle blew, both sides traded sets with intensity. The Broncos struck first through a patient scrum play that allowed Tamika Upton to slice outside the Roosters’ line and score. The Roosters responded with resilience, adjusting after an early reshuffle when impact players faced stoppages. By halftime, Brisbane held a slender lead, but the Roosters remained within striking distance, intent on sealing the seal-tight defense with smart kicking and tackles.
Second-half outlook and potential game-changers
The second half could hinge on bench impact and late-game discipline. For the Roosters, Brydie Parker’ s return from HIA and the shift of Corban Baxter to fullback add depth, while the Broncos could lean on their mix of forward power and backline speed to exploit tiring markers. The team that handles pressure and minimizes errors will likely decide the title in front of a packed Accor Stadium crowd and a national television audience.
Why this final matters for the NRLW
The NRLW has grown into a beacon for women’s sport, and this grand final is a testament to the quality level reached in the competition. A Broncos win would reinforce their status as a dynasty of the early NRLW era, while the Roosters’ victory would underline the consistency of a club pushing toward unprecedented unbeaten seasons and a continued run at history.
How to watch and follow live updates
The NRL Grand Final is live on Channel 9 on Sunday at 7:30pm AEDT. If you can’t be in front of the TV, follow NRL.com’s live blog for minute-by-minute updates, analysis, and post-match reaction as the season’s curtain-raiser concludes.
Post-game ramifications
Beyond pride and silverware, the result will influence the momentum for the 2026 season, player contracts, and the broader growth trajectory of female rugby league. The players entering or exiting the grand final will shape the league’s narrative for months to come.
