Wildest dreams: Who will make finals in the AFL’s race for the top 10?

July 13, 2026 — 11:31am

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With six rounds remaining in the 2026 AFL home-and-away season, the sprint to September is officially on.

Fremantle appear a lock for top spot, but Sydney’s hold on second place is vulnerable, and Hawthorn are still firmly in the hunt. From there, it’s anyone’s guess, so tight is the fight.

The introduction of the wildcard round – extending the number of clubs who can make finals from eight to 10 – has ensured more teams remain in the race at this point of the campaign.

We take a look at what awaits for your team.

What we say: The Dockers are two games clear on top of the ladder and are the team to beat, despite a goalless first half against the Swans on Thursday. It didn’t matter, for they conjured one of the great comebacks of recent years, booting 100 points in the second half. This team is loaded. Their run home really opens up, with Port Adelaide (still in the wildcard hunt) and the derby over the next fortnight before two top-six contenders await. For those peering over the bonnet, one game to keep an eye on is their season closer against Carlton at Marvel Stadium.Best-case finish: First. Worst-case finish: Second.

What we say: The Swans remain legitimate premiership contenders, but coach Dean Cox was understandably frustrated with the events post half-time in Perth. This defeat follows a 43-point loss to Brisbane a fortnight ago – is that something to ponder? The challenges still come, for they host the Crows and then have the always-heated “Battle of the Bridge”. They still have two interstate games remaining – one potentially tricky (St Kilda), the other (Essendon) not so.Best-case finish: First. Worst-case finish: Third.

What we say: The Hawks were........

© Brisbane Times