Arabic version: كروز يواجهون ضغط البطاقة الاستثنائية قبل مواجهة جي دبليو إس

According to ABC News, Adelaide could still be forced into a sudden-death wildcard match against Carlton or the Western Bulldogs even if it beats GWS on Saturday night. That outcome depends on the Lions, Hawks, Demons or Cats losing their final-round matches, fixtures they are heavily favoured to win.

The prospect has heightened pressure on a Crows fanbase already questioning the team’s game plan, selection and coaching after results. Adelaide head of football Adam Kelly said a month ago that the club’s performances were being exaggerated, adding that the team needed to remain focused, grounded and realistic about its position.

Josh Francou, a four-time Showdown Medallist, said anything short of a preliminary final appearance would be a failed season for Adelaide. He also questioned the club’s selection and its response when opponents apply pressure. Premiership-winning Crow Rod Jameson had previously warned that one strong season did not guarantee another finals campaign.

Adelaide has won eight of 11 games since its bye despite early-season availability problems involving Izak Rankine, captain Jordan Dawson, Riley Thilthorpe, Darcy Fogarty and Mark Keane. The side has improved its clearance differential from 18th in the final month of 2025 to seventh in 2026, while ranking fourth across the season for score from centre-bounce differential. However, it is last in the league for handball metres gained, third last for defensive-50-to-forward-50 transition and 18th for defensive-half turnovers.

Selection remains under scrutiny, including the use of fifth bench rotation Toby Murray, who had two touches in 66 minutes last round. Retiring veteran Taylor Walker will be farewelled at the GWS match. ABC Sport’s call of Adelaide v GWS begins at 7pm CST on ABC Listen and 891 ABC Adelaide.