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ESPN's Round 23 AFL fixture request

The AFL will release its official Round 23 fixture after this weekend's matches.

As with previous seasons, the final round of the home and away season has been a 'floating fixture,' meaning the AFL can assess where each team is at before scheduling the final nine games.

With up to 14 teams still in the mix to play finals, and a battle royale taking place to secure top-two and top-four finishes, the final round fixture will be keenly anticipated by all.

So, ahead of the official announcement, here is ESPN's wishlist for Round 23.

*All times are in AEST

FRIDAY, AUGUST 23

Richmond vs. Brisbane, MCG (7:50pm)

This looming blockbuster edges out a possible Collingwood vs. Essendon clash under the Friday night lights, with the Tigers and Lions likely to be scrapping for a top-four or even top-two finish. Incredibly, the Lions haven't played on a Friday night since 2014 and they have definitely earned the right for the final round of the season against a Richmond outfit gathering serious momentum.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 24

Western Bulldogs vs. Adelaide, MARS Stadium (1:45pm)

Saturday kicks off with the Bulldogs hosting the Crows in Ballarat. Luke Beveridge's men are unlikely to be a September chance, but Adelaide could be facing a win-or-miss-finals contest at the Bulldogs' home-away-from-home.

Port Adelaide vs. Fremantle, Adelaide Oval (2:10pm)

Speaking of pre-final finals, this could be a virtual elimination final if both the Power and Dockers are still within reach of the top eight come Round 23. Port have been hot and cold all season while the Dockers are trying to defy a mounting injury crisis, but this could still be a monstrous match in Adelaide on Saturday night.

Sydney vs. St Kilda, SCG (4:35pm)

This game won't have any finals implications but both teams will be determined to finish off their seasons strongly. All eyes, however, will be on the remaining matches later on Saturday...

Collingwood vs. Essendon, MCG (7:25pm)

This could easily have been held on the Friday night but it's fair to say the MCG will be heaving some 24 hours later when these traditional rivals meet. Depending on how things pan out over the next month, could it be conceivable the Bombers finish above the Magpies with a win in this game?

West Coast vs. Hawthorn, Optus Stadium (8:10pm)

The Eagles will be hunting a possible top-two finish, while the Hawks will possibly be out for a miracle September berth. This could be a classic pre-finals final with plenty on the line for both teams.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 25

North Melbourne vs. Melbourne, Blundstone Arena (1:10pm)

After the Roos' unlucky loss to Brisbane last weekend, it's unlikely they can force their way into September, so this meeting won't have any finals implications. The Roos don't lose many games in Hobart and the Dees will likely be already planning for their upcoming offseason.

Geelong vs. Carlton, GMHBA Stadium (3:20pm)

The Cats have been flying all season and despite some recent stumbles, should still have at least a top two spot sewn up come Round 23. They should comfortably account for the much-improved Blues, but would they prefer a sterner test ahead of September?

Gold Coast vs. GWS (4:40pm)

The final match of the home and away season is way off broadway and won't be pencilled in by many as a 'must watch'. But depending on results the Giants may need a win to secure a top two or top four spot, so there might be something on the line for Leon Cameron's side.