Melbourne Storm vs Penrith Panthers Tips, Odds, Teams & Predictions – NRL Round 25 2026

AAMI Park will play host to Thursday's Round 25 NRL game between Melbourne Storm and Penrith Panthers. The game kicks off at 7:50 pm with Penrith Panthers heading into the game as favourites with the bookmakers. Continue reading for our in-depth preview of the Melbourne Storm vs. Penrith Panthers game and give you our free tips and bets.

When: Thursday August 20, 2026 at 7:50 pm

Where: AAMI Park

Bet: Bet On This Match HERE

Melbourne Storm vs Penrith Panthers Odds

Melbourne Storm vs Penrith Panthers Preview

Melbourne returns from its bye needing a win to keep its faint finals hopes alive, while Penrith is trying to regain momentum after slipping from top spot. The Storm’s 42-20 victory over Manly ended a three-match losing run and the returns of Harry Grant and Jack Howarth improve their organisation and edge defence. Penrith has lost five of its past eight, although Casey McLean’s return offsets Paul Alamoti’s hamstring absence. Nathan Cleary and Cameron Munster again carry much of the creative responsibility in a rivalry Melbourne has won four of the past six times. Penrith’s poor 1-9 record at AAMI Park offers the hosts encouragement, but the Panthers’ urgency and superior season position should produce a sharp response.