The NRL Qualifying and Elimination Finals 2026 are underway, with the New Zealand Warriors facing the Dolphins in a highly anticipated matchup at Go Media Stadium in Auckland.
Why it matters: This match is the first playoff game at Go Media Stadium since 2023 and sets the stage for the teams vying for a place in the Preliminary Finals.
The winner of the Warriors vs Dolphins game will have a week off, easing the path to the Grand Final in October.
The loser will face Newcastle, who defeated Sydney 20-10 in the elimination finals last Friday.
This playoff series features teams ranked first to fourth battling for direct advancement, making every match a must-win.
Driving the news: The Warriors, ladder runners-up, are set to play against the third-placed Dolphins. The kickoff is scheduled for 6:05 PM on Saturday, September 12, 2026.
The game is expected to draw a passionate crowd, as fans from both teams are eager to support their players.
Go Media Stadium has been buzzing with excitement, marking its first playoff event since 2023.
Fans can follow the action live through various streaming options, including free-to-air Channel 9 and 9Now in Australia.
State of play: Both teams come into this match with varying degrees of momentum and lineup changes that could impact the outcome.
The Warriors announced their starting lineup, featuring key players like Taine Tuaupiki and Chanel Harris-Tavita.
Adam Pompey was elevated to the starting side after Leka Halasima was ruled out due to a hamstring injury sustained during warm-ups.
The Dolphins also face challenges, with Tom Flegler knocked out early in the match due to a concussion.
The big picture: This matchup is just part of a larger weekend of NRL action, with other teams also competing for survival in the finals.
On the same day, the Sharks will face the Cowboys in an elimination match at Allianz Stadium.
The Sharks have struggled recently, losing four of their past five games, putting them under pressure to perform.
Meanwhile, the Rabbitohs' recent loss to the Knights means they are eliminated, highlighting the stakes for all remaining teams.
What they're saying: Coaches and players from both teams have expressed their determination to advance in the finals.
"We know what’s at stake, and we’re ready to give it our all," said Warriors coach Andrew Webster.
Dolphins captain Jesse Bromwich emphasized the importance of staying focused: "Every game counts, and we need to play smart football to win."
Referee Adam Gee is prepared for a high-intensity match, noting the need for discipline on the field.
By the numbers: Statistics indicate the competitive nature of the finals.
The Warriors finished the regular season as ladder runners-up, highlighting their strong performance throughout the year.
The Dolphins have shown inconsistency, which could be a deciding factor in their playoff run.
Each qualifying match will determine which teams advance, with the stakes higher than ever.
What's next: Following the Warriors vs Dolphins match, the NRL finals continue with more elimination matches.
On Sunday, the minor premiers, the Panthers, will take on the Roosters at CommBank Stadium.
Penrith topped the ladder on the final day of the season, welcoming back skipper Isaah Yeo.
The outcomes of these matches will shape the path to the Grand Final, adding to the excitement of the finals series.