Where and when: Mineral Resources Park, Saturday, August 22, 12.35pm

Last time we met: West Coast 5.5 (35) defeated Gold Coast 2.8 (20), round one, 2025.

The Eagles recorded a 15-point win over Gold Coast at Mineral Resources Park in the teams' most recent meeting, opening their 2025 campaign with a strong four-quarter performance. Lucia Painter announced herself in style with three goals, including a dominant third-quarter burst that helped West Coast establish a match-winning lead. The exciting young forward's standout debut also earned her a Rising Star nomination, capping a memorable debut.

What it means for the Eagles: After losing to GWS in their opening round, the Eagles will be determined to respond and get their 2026 campaign up and running. Returning to Mineral Resources Park, West Coast has an opportunity to bank its first win and build confidence early in the year. A strong performance would reward the promising signs shown against the Giants and provide valuable momentum heading into the season.

The stat: West Coast's pressure proved the difference in last year's win over the Suns, with Jessica Rentsch laying a career-high 12 tackles.

Oppo in focus: Gold Coast co-captain Niamh McLaughlin is one of the AFLW's most damaging running defenders. The 2025 All Australian and former club champion runner-up is renowned for her speed, composure and ability to launch attacks from half-back. McLaughlin regularly generates metres gained and can quickly turn defence into offence, making her a key figure in the Suns' ball movement. If the Eagles can limit her run and influence, they will go a long way towards controlling the contest.

It’s a big week for: Natash Entwistle

After several years of consistent WAFLW form with South Fremantle, Natasha Entwistle is set to realise her AFLW dream on Saturday. Added to West Coast's list as an injury replacement player ahead of the 2026 season, Entwistle has earned her opportunity through resilience, hard work and a commitment to continual improvement. Known for her versatility and fierce competitiveness, the hard-running utility now has the chance to showcase her talents at the highest level.

Big call: After kicking three goals against Gold Coast on debut, Lucia Painter will raise the bar with a four-goal haul on Saturday.