Brisbane's Easter Thursday Blockbuster: A Massive Double-Header of Professional Sport

A Spectacular Night for Brisbane Sports Fans

Brisbane is set to become the epicenter of Australian professional sport tonight, Thursday, 2 April 2026. With the Easter long weekend on the horizon, the city is hosting a rare and high-octane double-header featuring two of the country’s most popular codes. Fans will be spoiled for choice as the Brisbane Lions take to the turf at The Gabba for their traditional Easter Thursday AFL clash, while the Brisbane Roar returns to Suncorp Stadium for a pivotal A-League Men’s fixture.

AFL: Brisbane Lions vs. Collingwood Magpies

The headline act of the evening is the Round 4 AFL Premiership battle between the Brisbane Lions and the Collingwood Magpies. This fixture has become a staple of the Brisbane sporting calendar, known as the "Easter Thursday Blockbuster." The rivalry between these two clubs has only intensified in recent years, often drawing a capacity crowd to the Woolloongabba venue.

• Venue: The Gabba, Woolloongabba
• Gates Open: 4:30 PM
• First Bounce: 6:30 PM

The Lions enter this match looking to secure back-to-back victories following a dominant performance last week. Head coach Chris Fagan has made key personnel changes, welcoming defender Darragh Joyce and midfielder James Tunstill into the starting lineup. Fans are encouraged to arrive early, as the atmosphere is expected to be electric from the moment gates open.

A-League Men: Brisbane Roar vs. Sydney FC

While the Sherrin is flying at the Gabba, the round ball will be the focus across town at Suncorp Stadium. The Brisbane Roar is hosting powerhouse Sydney FC in a Round 23 Isuzu UTE A-League Men match that carries significant weight for the finals race. This clash represents one of the final opportunities for the Roar to climb the ladder as the regular season nears its conclusion.

• Venue: Suncorp Stadium, Milton
• Gates Open: 7:00 PM
• Kick-off: 8:00 PM

The Roar will be looking to capitalize on their home-ground advantage in front of a passionate local crowd. Matches between these two sides are historically high-scoring and physical, making this a must-watch for football purists.

NRL Action in Greater Brisbane

For those located in the northern suburbs, the NRL also joins the Thursday night fray. The Dolphins are hosting the Manly Sea Eagles at Kayo Stadium in Redcliffe. As part of Round 5 of the NRL Telstra Premiership, the Dolphins will be fighting to maintain their standing in the top eight against a resurgent Sea Eagles side. Kick-off for this regional blockbuster is also scheduled for approximately 8:00 PM, rounding out an incredible night of professional competition for the region.