The Queensland derby returns under the Friday night lights at Suncorp Stadium as the Brisbane Broncos welcome the North Queensland Cowboys in what shapes as one of Round 6’s most compelling contests. 

The Broncos, although they defeated the Titans last weekend, lost two key players in Reece Walsh and Ben Hunt, which is a huge blow as they have been building momentum, winning their last three games after losing the first two games of the season.

The Cowboys also struggled to start the year, losing their first game in Vegas against the Knights and at Leichhardt against the Tigers.

Since then, the Cowboys have also won three games in a row, including a comeback win against the Melbourne Storm and keeping the Dragons scoreless in a 32-0 victory.  

The club also announced they extended their star of the future in Jaxon Purdue until the end of 2030, which comes just in time as they prepare for a very highly anticipated matchup.

For the latest news, odds and analysis ahead of this semi-finals rematch, check out our Broncos vs Cowboys tips and predictions below.

Broncos vs Cowboys Prediction and Betting Tips

Head-to-Head Prediction

The injury-riddled Broncos host the Cowboys in a rivalry game as both teams chase their fourth consecutive win after a 0-2 start.

The Broncos will look different to what we’re accustomed to seeing, as they will play Jesse Arthars at fullback, Josiah Karapani returns after being stood down, and Blake Mozer will also get more first grade games under his belt.  

One change has been made for the Cowboys, with Kai O’Donnell replacing Sam McIntyre in the backrow. 

After a lot of pressure on Todd Payten and the Cowboys in the off-season, the club has found a spark in their game.

The last time the Cowboys defeated the Broncos at Suncorp Stadium was back in round 3 of the 2022 season, and we predict their recent form in 2026 to take down the Broncos who are missing two of their most important players. 

Betting tip: Cowboys.

First Try Scorer Prediction

Brisbane has scored the first try in each of its last five matches against North Queensland, and we predict that trend to continue, with Kotoni Staggs crossing over for the first try of the game.

Betting tip: Kotoni Staggs

Over/Under Prediction

Eight of the last nine matches between Brisbane and North Queensland have gone over the total match points line, and both teams have the ability to put points on the board.

Betting tip: Over (49.5) total match points.

Line Prediction

With the injuries to the Broncos, the Cowboys have a prime chance to defy the odds and cover this line for the first time against the Broncos since round 16 of the 2022 season, which is the last time the Cowboys have defeated the Broncos.

Betting tip: Cowboys (+3.5) line.

Broncos vs Cowboys Anytime Try Scorer Betting Tips

Gehamat Shibasaki

Gehamat Shibasaki has scored at least one try in each of his last four home appearances against opponents that were ranked higher on the ladder.

Payne Haas

Payne Haas has scored a try in each of Brisbane's last two matches against the Cowboys.

Murray Taulagi

Murray Taulagi has scored at least one try in nine of his last 10 away appearances.

Jaxon Purdue

Purdue has scored in three of his last four games this season, and has scored at least one try in four of his side’s last five away matches.

Broncos vs Cowboys Teams

Brisbane Broncos Team List

1. Jesse Arthars 

2. Josiah Karapani

3. Kotoni Staggs

4. Gehamat Shibasaki

5. Deine Mariner

6. Ezra Mam

7. Adam Reynolds

8. Corey Jensen

9. Cory Paix

10. Payne Haas

11. Brendan Piakura

12. Jordan Riki

13. Patrick Carrigan

14. Blake Mozer

15. Xavier Willison

16. Ben Talty

17. Aublix Tawha

18. Thomas Duffy

North Queensland Cowboys Team List

1. Scott Drinkwater

2. Braidon Burns

3. Jaxon Purdue

4. Tom Chester

5. Murray Taulagi

6. Jake Clifford

7. Tom Dearden

8. Coen Hess

9. Reed Mahoney

10. Jason Taumalolo

11. Heilum Luki

12. Kai O’Donnell

13. Reuben Cotter

14. Soni Luke

15. Griffin Neame

16. Thomas Mikaele

17. Matthew Lodge

18. Zac Laybutt

Broncos vs Cowboys Match Details

Date: Friday, April 10, 2026.

Kick-off: 8:00pm AEDT.

Location: Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane.