NRL Finals Week 1 betting tips, multi picks & predictions

The 2025 NRL finals series kicks off with four blockbuster matchups this weekend as the remaining eight sides look to keep their premiership hopes alive.

With proven heavyweights like the Storm and Panthers facing in-form risers like the Bulldogs and Warriors, and with clubs like the Roosters, Broncos, and Raiders primed for ambushes, week one promises edge-of-your-seat footy and plenty of betting value with the top online bookmakers.

Here’s our full NRL betting preview with expert tips and best bets for all four games this weekend.

Melbourne Storm v Canterbury Bulldogs

Friday, September 12 – 7:50pm AEST – AAMI Park, Melbourne

The Storm head into their home final without two key stars — Jahrome Hughes and Ryan Papenhuyzen — but still bring a strong spine and serious September experience. Tyran Wishart partners Cam Munster in the halves, and Harry Grant returns at hooker to steer the side around. Despite recent wobbles, Melbourne’s structure, discipline, and AAMI Park advantage can’t be discounted despite recent wobbles.

The Bulldogs, meanwhile, look to spring an upset with Matt Burton and Lachlan Galvin pulling the strings. They’ve reshuffled the backline due to injury, but the team’s recent form — and nothing-to-lose mindset — makes them a real threat. Connor Tracey’s composure at fullback has added a layer of control, and with Viliame Kikau leading a mobile pack, the Dogs are every chance of catching Melbourne cold.

New Zealand Warriors v Penrith Panthers

Saturday, September 13 – 6:05pm NZST – Go Media Stadium, Auckland

The Warriors will be banking on home support and emotion to lift them in this sudden-death showdown. With Wayde Egan and Jackson Ford returning, their middle-third defence and ruck control should improve. Roger Tuivasa-Sheck and Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad bring strike power out wide, and if Chanel Harris-Tavita can dictate tempo early, the Wahs are a live dog.

Despite finishing seventh, the Penrith Panthers come in as favourites on the back of their legendary finals DNA. Nathan Cleary’s leadership and game management remain elite, and with Dylan Edwards and Brian To’o back, the Panthers’ attack regains its rhythm. Expect Ivan Cleary’s side to strangle the tempo and win the territory game, but they may not have it all their own way in Auckland.

Cronulla Sharks v Sydney Roosters

Saturday, September 13 – 7:50pm AEST – Sharks Stadium, Sydney

The Sharks finished fifth for a reason, but the question lingers: can they beat a top-tier side when it matters? Nicho Hynes is back and will be key, combining with Braydon Trindall in the halves to unlock Cronulla’s edges. Jesse Ramien and Ronaldo Mulitalo bring punch on the right, and with a 10–2 record at home this year, they won’t go down without a fight.

The Roosters are red-hot, with five wins from their last six and an attack clicking at the perfect time. Sam Walker has transformed their offensive shape, James Tedesco is back to his best, and Mark Nawaqanitawase adds X-factor out wide. Their efficiency inside the opposition 20 is the best in the NRL, and that clinical edge should give them the advantage when finals pressure hits.

Canberra Raiders v Brisbane Broncos

Sunday, September 14 – 4:05pm AEST – GIO Stadium, Canberra

The Raiders topped the ladder and now host a Broncos side missing its captain. With Josh Papalii named and Jamal Fogarty back steering the ship, Canberra’s powerful pack and elite ruck control will be their foundation. Matt Timoko and Seb Kris give them attacking punch in the centres, and in cold Canberra conditions, Ricky Stuart’s side won’t be easy to knock over.

The Broncos are firing despite the absence of Adam Reynolds, with Ben Hunt and Billy Walters showing cohesion and unlocking Reece Walsh’s speed. Payne Haas and Pat Carrigan continue to dominate the middle, and if they can control the tempo, Brisbane’s outside backs will get space to move. The key will be Walsh’s involvement; if he breaks the game open, the Broncos could steal it.

NRL Finals Week 1 multi tips

• Broncos H2H
• Warriors +9.5
• Roosters -2.5
• Raiders -3.5

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