Where and when: Optus Stadium, Sunday, August 23, 5.20pm

TV: Live nationally on the 7 network,7plus, Fox Footy and Kayo (see broadcast guide here)

Last time we met: Hawthorn 18.16 (124) defeated West Coast 11.8 (74) at Marvel Stadium, round 7, 2025.

West Coast showed plenty of fight when the sides last met at Marvel Stadium, with Hawthorn eventually pulling away to secure the victory. After trailing by just seven points at quarter-time, the Eagles responded strongly after the main break and competed hard through the second half but not enough to close the gap. Harley Reid finished with 16 disposals and two majors, while Brady Hough impressed in his first full game in the midfield with 23 disposals.

What it means for the Eagles: With the finish line in sight, the Eagles have one final opportunity to build momentum ahead of the off season. A strong performance against Hawthorn would provide another step forward for the developing group, while a positive result would reward the progress shown throughout the second half of the year and create belief heading into a crucial summer of preparation for 2027.

The stat: Only 3 per cent separates these two teams in goal accuracy. If West Coast can force Hawthorn into difficult shots, the Eagles can keep the scoreboard tight.

The match-up: Rhett Bazzo v Jack Gunston

Rhett Bazzo faces a tough assignment against Hawthorn veteran Jack Gunston, who will celebrate his 300th AFL game on Sunday. Bazzo has continued to develop as a key pillar in defence, using his aerial strength and composure to nullify dangerous forwards. He'll likely spend time on the experienced Gunston, whose leading patterns, goal sense and ability to find space inside 50 have made him one of the game's most respected forwards.

It’s a big week for: Rhett Bazzo

Rhett Bazzo enters this weekend's clash fresh from signing a contract extension that will keep him at the Eagles until at least the end of 2029. The talented key defender has continued to develop into an important part of West Coast's future, committing to a young core determined to drive the club's next era of success. Bazzo will look to continue the strong form that has reinforced the club's belief in him as a key pillar of its future.

Big call: The Eagles kick their highest score of the season and send their members into the off season with plenty to be excited about.