Australia vs British & Irish Lions – 3rd Test Prediction, Players, Odds: 2/8/2025

This decisive third Test is set to crown the winner of the 2025 Lions Tour. With the series 1‑1 after Melbourne’s intense second Test, both sides arrive in Sydney under pressure: the Lions aiming to seal a clean sweep, Australia desperate to avoid defeat and salvage pride. A capacity crowd of over 80,000 is expected to fuel the drama under the lights at Accor Stadium.

Australia Overview

The Wallabies mustered a spirited comeback in the second Test at Melbourne, boosted by the return of forwards Will Skelton and Rob Valetini, restoring much‑needed physical edge and leadership to the pack. Head coach Joe Schmidt has emphasized intensity and forward dominance as keys to reversing the series, while Australian fans hope home advantage and squad unity can spark a revival.

British & Irish Lions Overview

After a steady first Test and resilient second Test showing, the Lions still face questions over breakdown speed and adaptability under pressure. Captain Maro Itoje leads a structured side focused on disciplined possession and wing play accuracy. The touring side balances caution and ambition—and will seek a defining statement performance in their final chance.

Form Path Summary

• Australia: Improved physical structure and aggressiveness from Test 2, looking to carry momentum into Sydney.
• Lions: Strong tour form, with unbeaten pre-Test build-up and tight results under pressure—but wary of overcaution.

Recent Form & Stats

Australia (Key Tests): Narrow victory in Melbourne, lost opener
Lions (Tour Form): Consecutive wins and consistent performances

Key Players to Watch

Australia

• Will Skelton & Rob Valetini: Their re‑introduction significantly raises collision impact and defensive barrier strength.
• Harry Wilson (Captain): Forward drive and discipline will be vital around the breakdown.

Lions

• Maro Itoje (Captain): Leadership through set-piece dominance and physical presence in the middle third.
• Finn Russell: Playmaking control and kicking range to keep Australia under scoreboard pressure.

What to Watch Live

• Physical intensity up front – Australia need dominance in scrums and line‑outs to control set‑piece exchanges.
• Breakdown tempo – Lions must maintain clean ball, but Australia’s return of power backs adds pressure.
• Game tempo – Will Australia’s pick‑and‑go blunt Lions’ flair or will Lions territory control define the match?

Where to Watch Live

Kick-off at 8:00 PM AEST. Coverage on Channel Nine & Stan Sport in Australia; Sky Sports Lions / Sky Sports Main Event in the UK

Betting Insight

• Match Odds: Lions slight betting favorites
• Handicap: Lions –5 to –7
• Over/Under Total Points: Around 54

Expect a tense affair where scoring chances are earned rather than gifted. A close total (under) may offer value if Australia’s forwards disrupt flow and limit backline space.

Bet Summary: Back the Lions on a tight handicap and consider under on total points.

Prediction

With the series on the line, expect both sides to fight for physical ascendancy early. Australia’s return of key forwards should lift them—but the Lions’ game management and territory control likely win the day. A series triumph beckons for the visitors if they handle pressure and finish chances.

• Predicted Winner: British & Irish Lions
• Expected Scoreline: Lions 24 – Australia 18
• Tactical X‑Factor: Lions’ ability to control midfield possession and territorial kicking will sap Australia’s momentum and structure.