A complete round of NRL returns this weekend with the opening fixture taking place on Thursday in Sydney. This is the last audition for a spot in the decider for State of Origin and as the Finals approach, teams will be preparing themselves for a shot at extending their season. The Eels are an outside chance and host the Rabbitohs, a team pushing for a spot in the Top 8. This sets the stage for a blockbuster contest and Before You Bet is here with a detailed preview to help guide you through.
Also, Before You Bet will be providing free previews and betting tips for EVERY game in the 2026 NRL season, so make sure to head over to our NRL Tips regularly to keep up to date with all of our free content.
Eels vs Rabbitohs Predictions & Tips: NRL Round 17 2026
Earning their week off
It was another spirited, yet isolated performance from the Eels as they defeated the Raiders 15-12 at home. In a gritty display of rugby league, the Eels outlasted their opponents and controlled a second-half fightback to prevail. Not only was it impressive considering the players still missing from their team, but the statistics were also against them. With just 49% possession, they completed at just 73%, made 8.8m per carry, and missed 34 tackles. Their result, considering their circumstances, should give them a confidence boost with a week off assisting with overcoming fatigue. There is also a sense that a better team may have made the Eels pay for their mistakes.
Brilliant one day, still injured the next
On an emotional night, the Rabbitohs produced a flawless 48-6 defeat of the Broncos at home. Dominating the first half, the game was all but over as they lead 30-nil at HT. In the end, their true potential was again displayed. With 60% possession they completed at 82%, made 8.7m per carry, had 639 PCM’s, 7 line breaks, and missed just 15 tackles. Sadly, injuries continue to plague the strength of their squad, but such is the regularity, they are accustomed to it now and it is yet another opportunity for other players to step up and fill the void for them.
Stats that matter
- The Rabbitohs have won 9 out of the past 10 games against the Eels. The Eels have a strong record at this ground though, winning 61% of matches, compared to the Rabbitohs 46%.
- In the past 5 games, the average margin of victory is 16.4 points, with only one game decided by fewer than 16 points. In the same number of matches, the average total points is 45.2.
- It is no surprise that the Rabbitohs are the superior team on both sides of the ball this season. They score 29ppg in attack compared to the Eels 20ppg and concede 23ppg defensively, while the Eels allow 30ppg.
More of a chance than you think
It is the first Eels game Moses has featured in since Round 11 and there is no doubt that his inclusion improves his team. He drives standards on both sides of the ball, as his experienced is a welcomed addition in attack. It is also his 250th game and the Eels will lift to the occasion. This, combined with the players missing for the Rabbitohs, gives the Eels a great chance of winning this contest than the odds suggest. The visitors should have the edge in the middle; their forwards appear to have more power when carrying the ball forward, combining that with fast footwork to get on the outside of defenders. That also assumes the Eels allow this to happen. Their most recent effort suggests that might not be the case.
The Rabbitohs are a strong team too – arguably stronger than the Eels – and will not allow this to happen easily. The pressure they build with their kicks at the end of attacking sets is crucial to their success. This should keep the contest close until the final stages of the match with the Rabbitohs putting the finishing touches on their performance to pull away late, winning by more than 2 converted tries. This covers their average winning margin of 21.1 points and Eels average losing margin of 21.2 points.
Rabbitohs 13+
$2.80 (1 unit)
Eels vs Rabbitohs Same Game Multi
Leg 1 = Total points over 46.5 – the average in the past 5 games is lower than this total but the point scoring average of each suggests this total will go over.
Leg 2 = Johnston to score – despite not scoring in his past 2 games against the Eels, he amassed 5 tries in the 3 games prior. Johnston is also a man in form, crossing for 4 tries in his last game to take his total to 10 tries in his past 5 matches.
Leg 3 = Duncan to score – he crossed twice in his last game against the Eels and will again be a threat after being named at centre. He is a strong ball carrier and can finish when close to the line.
Eels vs Rabbitohs Betting Odds & Match Info
Date: Thursday 25th June
Location: CommBank Stadium, Sydney
Time: 7:50pm (AEST)
Odds: Eels $2.50 vs Rabbitohs $1.53
Line: +5.5
Points: 46.5
Where to Watch Eels vs Rabbitohs
Watch the Eels vs Rabbitohs match live and ad free on Kayo Sports.
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