Watch the Hawthorn vs Brisbane AFL Preliminary Final Free Online

The 2026 AFL preliminary final will see the Hawthorn Hawks take on the Brisbane Lions this Saturday, September 19, with the opening whistle at 5:15 pm AEST (3:15 am ET, 8:15 am BST). Whoever triumphs earns a spot in the Grand Final the following weekend, turning the match into essential viewing for football supporters.

In Australia, the game is available free of charge via the over‑the‑air streaming platform 7Plus, which holds the league’s domestic rights. International audiences, however, hit a geo‑block on the service; using a VPN to connect to an Australian server bypasses the restriction and grants access to the stream.

NordVPN, a provider geared toward tech users, is currently advertising a limited‑time deal that cuts its subscription cost by 75 %. After installing the VPN and choosing an Australian node, overseas viewers can stream the match on 7Plus without incurring the typical broadcast charges, assuming they possess a suitable device and a reliable internet link.

Hawthorn arrives at the preliminary final riding a wave of confidence after a commanding win that eliminated the competition’s minor premiers earlier in the finals. That triumph not only booked their ticket to the second‑last match but also forced a showdown they had preferred to sidestep, considering Brisbane’s reputation for tough, high‑intensity football.

Brisbane, on the other hand, secured their berth by overcoming a difficult bracket, highlighted by a gritty semi‑final victory over a top‑ranked side. Their campaign has featured a well‑rounded midfield and a forward unit that can swing games in the dying moments—qualities that may tip the balance against Hawthorn’s attacking approach.

Beyond the immediate reward of a Grand Final slot, the preliminary final bears added significance. The victor enjoys a week’s recuperation before the season‑closing clash, whereas the defeated side sees its campaign end instantly, highlighting the high‑pressure nature of this knockout fixture.

Viewers intending to stream should test their VPN setup before kickoff to prevent last‑minute glitches. While those without a VPN can rely on radio or social‑media feeds for live updates, the fullest experience comes from watching the entire broadcast on 7Plus. As the AFL hypes what may become a classic duel, the availability of the game via free digital platforms guarantees that fans across the globe can watch without needing a paid subscription.