The biggest game of Geelong’s VFL season so far has arrived.

A place in the 2026 Smithy’s VFL Grand Final is on the line as the Cats welcome Port Melbourne to GMHBA Stadium for a blockbuster Preliminary Final on Sunday afternoon.

After earning the week off during the opening week of finals, Geelong returns home refreshed and ready to defend its home turf against a Borough side carrying plenty of momentum into September.

With two of the competition's strongest teams going head-to-head, Sunday's clash promises to be a fierce battle from the opening bounce.

Match Details

First Preliminary Final
Geelong Cats vs Port Melbourne
Sunday, September 13
GMHBA Stadium, Geelong
1:35pm AEST

Finals football returns to GMHBA Stadium

There's no better stage than finals football at GMHBA Stadium, and the Cats will be looking to make the most of home ground advantage in front of the Geelong faithful.

Throughout 2026, Geelong has built its success on relentless pressure, disciplined team defence and the ability to move the ball with speed and purpose.

The Cats have consistently found ways to score from turnovers, while their defensive structure has made them one of the toughest sides to break down.

Player to Watch: Mitch Knevitt  

Knevitt has continued to lead from the front in 2026, using his size and endurance to become one of Geelong's most important midfielders.

Whether it's winning the ball at the contest or pushing forward to impact the scoreboard, the 23-year-old has been a consistent performer for the Cats.

He is coming off a dominant qualifying final performance, collecting 30 disposals, seven marks and two goals in one of his best games of the season.

Knevitt will be looking to carry that outstanding form into Sunday's Preliminary Final and provide the midfield drive Geelong needs in the biggest game of its season.

GEELONG, AUSTRALIA - AUGUST 29: Mitch Knevitt of the Cats celebrates a goal with teammates during the 2026 VFL First Qualifying Final match between Geelong Cats and Tasmania at GMHBA Stadium on August 29th, 2026 in Geelong, Australia. (Photo by Craig Dooley/AFL Photos)

Four Quarters of Consistency

If there's been one trademark of Geelong's season, it's been the ability to play consistent football across all four quarters.

The Cats have repeatedly worn teams down with their composure, discipline and willingness to stick to their system, regardless of the scoreboard.

In a Preliminary Final where momentum is bound to swing, Geelong's ability to stay composed and execute in the big moments could be the difference between ending the season and earning a shot at the 2026 VFL premiership.

Tickets and Where to Watch

Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased via www.intix.com.au/org/vfl

Supporters unable to attend can catch all the action live on ABC (Victoria), with national streaming available on ABC iview, as well as the AFL website and AFL Live Official App.