As the AFL’s Round 23 approaches, teams are preparing for significant changes that could alter their playoff trajectories. Both **Collingwood** and **Adelaide** are set to make multiple adjustments for their critical top-four showdown, while the **GWS Giants** have encountered a setback that threatens their position in the finals race.
In the season’s penultimate round, teams are under pressure to secure their places in the finals. The **Collingwood Magpies**, currently struggling with injuries, will face a pivotal match against Adelaide, while the Giants look to rebound after a disappointing performance last week.
Adelaide and Collingwood Clash
The match between **Adelaide Crows** and **Collingwood** on **August 16**, 2025, promises to be a defining moment for both clubs. Following a narrow victory over **West Coast**, Adelaide may be forced to make two changes. **James Peatling** is recovering from a corked thigh, while the club is contesting **Rory Laird**’s suspension at the tribunal. In positive news, **Taylor Walker** is expected to return after resting last week.
On the other hand, **Collingwood** faces a series of selection challenges. The team suffered a blow with **Jeremy Howe** sidelined due to concussion in their recent loss to Hawthorn. Coach **Craig McRae** will need to find a solution to strengthen the backline against a potent Adelaide attack. Uncertainty surrounds the potential return of **Beau McCreery** and **Bobby Hill**, both of whom could bolster the forward line.
Injury Updates and Selection News
The **GWS Giants** are also reeling from injuries as they prepare to take on the **Gold Coast Suns** on **August 16**. After a much-needed win against **North Melbourne**, the Giants now face a more formidable opponent. Star forward **Jesse Hogan** is in doubt due to a foot issue, and **Jake Stringer** is expected to miss out due to a hamstring setback.
Meanwhile, the **Gold Coast Suns** are in good form, winning four of their last five matches. Coach **Damien Hardwick** is likely to keep changes minimal, although **Sam Flanders** could return from a back injury. The Suns displayed a solid performance last week, and Hardwick will look to maintain momentum as they aim for a strong finish to the season.
In other notable matchups, **Essendon** will face **St Kilda**, with both teams aiming to solidify their positions ahead of the finals. The Bombers emerged relatively unscathed from their last match, while the Saints are dealing with the loss of **Paddy Dow**, who suffered a collarbone injury that has ended his season.
Moreover, the **Fremantle Dockers** are looking to recover from a recent victory as they host the **Brisbane Lions**. The Lions, who face uncertainty with defender **Brandon Starcevich**, need to bounce back to secure their finals position.
As the countdown to the finals continues, team selections and injury updates will be crucial. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the teams make their final preparations for this pivotal round of matches. The outcomes will not only impact the standings but also set the stage for an exciting finals series.
