Broncos vs. Panthers Predictions – NRL Round 1 2026

The NRL continues with Round 1 action between the Broncos vs. Panthers on Friday, March 6 at 8:00pm at Suncorp Stadium.

Favouritism is with the Broncos in the Grand Final rematch, which is the featured game of the opening game.

Broncos vs. Panthers Predictions

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Best Bet

Nathan Cleary avoided suspension for the opening game, so our confidence with the Panthers beating the Broncos went up.

They might have lost the Grand Final last year after leading by 10 points at halftime, but this team is made of stone, and punters should expect an always-tough Panthers team to turn up to Suncorp Stadium on Friday.

Given the way the Broncos lost to Hull KR in the World Club Challenge, we can’t bet on them. Hull KR were then smashed in their Super League game in Las Vegas, and if the Broncos don’t turn up mentally, the Panthers will pounce.

$2.16 for the Panthers is a price far too generous to pass up. We rated them as $1.90 equal favourites, so lock in the value before money comes for him.

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Same Game Multi

We’re all in on the Panthers, including Brian To’o and Paul Alamoti to score a try. To’o is no stranger to scoring tries, and he should fancy his chances of beating his defender close to the line. $2.15 is a better price than expected.

Alamoti is only 22 years old, which is hard to believe. He has made a big impact for the Panthers, and he tends to score many of his tries early in the year. Include him in NRL same game multi bets at $2.35.

The total points line is set at 39.5, which is on the lower side. Our final score prediction has the Panthers winning 24-20, so include the over.

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Best Value Bet

We predict To’o making a big impact early in the game for the Panthers, and he looked good during the pre-season games.

He’s one of the most powerful runners when close to the line and given the way the Broncos’ defence folded to Hull KR, he should be licking his lips.

Take the double-figure odds for one of the best wingers in the game.