Home
NRL

2025 NRL Finals Predictions Week 2 – Raiders v Sharks, Bulldogs v Panthers

Jeremy Darke

Editor

Last updated: Tue 16 Sep 2025 11:12

Jeremy Darke 16 Sep 2025

Share this article

Raiders seek to regroup mentally after extra-time loss; strong defence key vs Sharks.
Sharks advanced due to Roosters' mistakes, less from own play.
Bulldogs face tough, in-form Panthers; Penrith favoured due to defence and finals experience.
History supports top-four teams but Raiders and Panthers tipped to reach the prelims.

2025 NRL Finals Predictions Week 2

NRL Semi Finals 2025 Preview – Raiders v Sharks & Bulldogs v Panthers

The 2025 NRL Semi Finals have arrived, with two huge clashes set to determine who books a place in the preliminary finals against the Melbourne Storm and Brisbane Broncos.

Raiders v Sharks – Can Canberra Regroup?

The Raiders suffered heartbreak against Brisbane, losing in extra time after twice thinking they had the win secured. Mental recovery is now their biggest hurdle. Canberra’s defensive stats remain elite, ranking top two for goal line defence and they’ve already beaten Cronulla this season. Ricky Stuart’s challenge is to steel his side against a Sharks outfit who benefited more from Roosters’ mistakes than their own brilliance in Week 1. If Canberra can control the tempo, their resilience at GIO Stadium could be the difference.

Canberra RaidersTo WinBET HERE

The dabble.com.au referral code is BETSAU. 18+. T&Cs apply.

Bulldogs v Panthers – Dynasty v Dream Run

The Bulldogs have enjoyed an impressive run, but facing Penrith is a different beast. The Panthers’ defence has returned to its ruthless best, holding the Warriors to just eight points last week, while Nathan Cleary’s kicking game continues to dictate terms. Canterbury’s new-look halves pairing and reshuffled backline could struggle under pressure, particularly without Stephen Crichton’s defensive leadership.

History also looms large: teams from the bottom four of the finals rarely progress beyond Week 2. Yet Penrith could rewrite the script, chasing their fifth premiership in six years. Winning from eighth place would be the ultimate exclamation mark on their dynasty.

Penrith PanthersTo WinBET HERE

18+. T&Cs apply

The Verdict

Both games promise intensity, but the numbers point towards a Canberra bounce-back and a Penrith march into another preliminary final. Finals footy is about resilience and control, and both the Raiders and Panthers appear best placed to deliver.