Geelong have made three changes for Friday night's blockbuster Qualifying Final at the MCG, as they kick-off their September campaign against the Brisbane Lions. 

After missing the Round 24 clash with Richmond, Cats duo Shannon Neale and Mark O'Connor are set to make to their return to take on the reigning premiers. 

Jhye Clark is also among the inclusions for Geelong, set to make his first appearance at AFL level since the Round 22 clash against Essendon. 

Rhys Stanley will miss the match with a hamstring complaint, while Mitch Knevitt and Jed Bews will also make way, with the pair omitted. 

Clark and Connor O'Sullivan are set to play the first Final in their AFL careers, while Bailey Smith and Jack Martin will also pull on the Hoops for the first time in September. 

The stage is set as the Cats prepare to embark on their 2025 Finals campaign, set to take on the Brisbane Lions on Friday night in a rematch of last year's thrilling Preliminary Final. 

It marks a 17th Finals appearance for Geelong in the last 19 years and a 15th top-four finish, as Chris Scott looks to lead his team to a third premiership in his tenure as head coach. 

Make sure to check out Geelong's Finals Hub to catch up on all the information ahead of Friday night's game, and do not miss out on exciting activations like March to the 'G, Show Your Colours and much more.