Super Rugby Semi-Final Preview & Tips - Chiefs and Crusaders set to meet in Super Rugby Grand Final

We have the latest tips and predictions ahead of the Super Rugby semi-finals this weekend. 

The Crusaders secured what was ultimately a comfortable 32-12 win over the Reds in their qualifying-final as they made it four consecutive wins in the competition. This 20-point win followed tight wins over the Highlanders (15-12) and Brumbies (33-31), with the former champions pushed hard. While the Blues have been strong as the season has come to a close, the Crusaders boast wins in their last three against their opponents. With the lure of a final now as strong as ever, I back the Crusaders in a very tight win. 

The Blues were outstanding last weekend as they beat the Chiefs 20-19 to keep their hopes of defending their Grand Final crown alive. Two consecutive wins and four wins in their last five heading into the semi-finals shows the side are in good form, but they have struggled against the Crusaders of late. Three consecutive defeats to their opponents along with seven defeats in their last eight means form is against the Blues. While I predict that they will push the Crusaders hard, I do not back them to win this one. 

The Chiefs were left stunned by the Blues last weekend as they were handed a 20-19 loss that saw their three-game winning run brought to an abrupt end. Despite this loss, the Chiefs arrive for their game as both the favourites to win this weekend and to secure the crown this season. Wins in their last four against the Brumbies shows the Chiefs are strong, but they will be desperate to start well so they can banish any demons from last weekend. 

The Brumbies have enjoyed an exceptional season, and they are fully deserving of their place in the semi-finals. A strong 35-28 win over the Hurricanes saw them bounce back from a heart-breaking 33-31 loss to the Crusaders in their final match of the regular season. While they did secure nine wins across their 14 regular season games, the Brumbies have really struggled against the Chiefs. Their 49-34 loss to their opponents in their last meeting was a tough one and it followed on from a crushing 46-12 loss the year before. While the Brumbies have been excellent this season, I predict that their Super Rugby 2025 run will end in the semi-finals.