Adelaide, Hawthorn Clash in Sudden-Death AFL Semi-Final at Adelaide Oval

The Adelaide Crows face a critical AFL semi-final at Adelaide Oval against the Hawthorn Hawks, with the winner advancing to play Geelong in the preliminary final. The Crows, minor premiers, are under pressure to avoid a straight-sets finals exit, which would be a first since 1983 and a disappointing end to an otherwise overachieving season. Adelaide has made tactical changes, including the return of forward Josh Rachele, while Hawthorn has also adjusted its lineup due to injuries. The Hawks, coming off a thrilling elimination final win over GWS Giants, are motivated by their previous semi-final experience at Adelaide Oval and are seen as capable of upsetting the top-ranked Crows. Both teams have strong fan support present at the sold-out venue, creating an intense atmosphere as anticipation and anxiety build. The outcome will determine which side continues their finals campaign and which faces a season-ending disappointment.