The Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs are set to face the Penrith Panthers in a highly anticipated NRL semifinal at Accor Stadium in Sydney. The match is expected to draw a crowd of around 70,000 fans, eager to witness the action unfold this afternoon.

In a significant lineup change, Reed Mahoney will start as hooker for the Bulldogs, replacing Bailey Hayward, who will move to the bench. Sitili Tupouniua will also start at prop, pushing Josh Curran to the bench. The Bulldogs will be without captain Stephen Crichton, who was ruled out after failing a fitness test due to a serious ankle injury. Matt Burton will shift to center, with Lachlan Galvin taking over at five-eighth and Toby Sexton at halfback. Bronson Xerri returns to the centers for the match.

For the Panthers, Mitch Kenny has been named in the starting lineup after recovering from a hamstring injury. This marks a crucial return for the team as they aim for their fifth consecutive premiership. Prop Moses Leota will also reach a milestone, making his 200th NRL appearance.

The match is set to kick off at 4:05 PM local time. Fans are buzzing with excitement as both teams prepare for a fierce battle on the field. The Bulldogs will look to upset the reigning champions, while the Panthers aim to continue their quest for history.

Earlier in the day, the NRLW semifinals saw the Cronulla Sharks and Newcastle Knights advance to the preliminary finals. The Sharks secured their spot with a 24-12 victory over the Cowboys, thanks to standout performances from hooker Georgia Hannaway. Meanwhile, the Knights defeated the Titans 34-20, setting up a clash with the Broncos in the next round.

As the Bulldogs and Panthers prepare to clash, the atmosphere is electric, and fans are eager to see which team will emerge victorious in this elimination semifinal.