As the 2026 #NPLQLD Men’s season kicks off this Friday, we’ve reached out to some of Football Queensland’s sharpest media voices to break down what’s ahead. Who’s ready to make a title push, which under-the-radar sides could shake things up, and what storylines are set to define another season of intense competition?
James Caughlin – FQTV Commentator & Brisbane Football Review
“I can’t remember a tougher season to call. Plenty of sides could challenge for the title or a top-four finish. Success will come down to the difference makers who can turn draws into wins and some clubs look poised for strong league and cup runs. Peninsula Power, Lions FC, and Moreton City look solid, though the reigning Premiers might need time after a 43-game 2025 campaign. Brisbane City, Olympic, Easts, Wolves, Knights, and Gold Coast United could all spring upsets if things click. Honestly, it’s wide open.”
Premiers: Peninsula Power
Champions: Moreton City Excelsior
Top 4: Peninsula Power, Moreton City Excelsior, Wynnum Wolves, Lions FC
Adam Pace – Brisbane Football Review
“It could be the closest NPL Queensland Men’s season ever, with many clubs having legitimate claims to the Premiership. Defending Premiers Moreton City Excelsior go from hunters to the hunted after a successful 2025.
Grand Final winners Lions FC start under a new coach but have recruited well. Peninsula Power look strong with a deep squad and solid defence. Queensland Cup winners Gold Coast Knights are also under new coaching and aim to stay near the top. Ambitious Eastern Suburbs can build on their semi-final run, while Brisbane City and Olympic could join the mix if they find consistency. The wildcard is Gold Coast United, who play their first ten games away from home.“
Premiers: Peninsula Power
Champions: Moreton City Excelsior
Top 4: Peninsula Power, Moreton City Excelsior, Lions FC, Gold Coast United
Scott Owen – Brisbane Football Review
“Last season was one of the closest Premiership races in NPL Men history, and this year could be just as tight with changes across the competition set to shake things up. Defending Premiers Moreton City Excelsior will try to back up last year’s title after a shortened preseason due to their Australian Championship run, while Lions FC begin a quest for a hat-trick of Championships with a new coach and several new faces. Peninsula Power have a strong squad again, with depth from back to front, and Eastern Suburbs made major moves over the summer to go a step further. Traditional powers Brisbane City and Olympic FC remain a threat, while Gold Coast’s Knights and United look strong, with United’s draw one of the season’s biggest wildcards. Rochedale’s return and Magic’s addition should make the Coast even more competitive.“
Premiers: Peninsula Power
Champions: Lions FC
Top 4: Peninsula Power, Lions FC, Moreton City Excelsior, Eastern Suburbs
Allan Croall – FQTV Commentator
“Moreton City Excelsior were the standout side last year and look just as strong heading into the new season, making them the team to beat. Gold Coast Knights should improve on last year’s finish and push for a top-four spot. Lions FC, Peninsula Power, and Eastern Suburbs all remain genuine finals contenders. Peninsula Power look particularly strong and could break their finals hoodoo if they make the playoffs. “
Premiers: Moreton City Excelsior
Champions: Peninsula Power
Top 4: Moreton City Excelsior, Gold Coast Knights, Lions FC, Peninsula Power
Adam Cattell – FQTV Commentator
“The 2026 NPL Queensland Men’s title promises to be an incredibly close fight. Reigning Premiers Moreton City Excelsior will be tested after losing Kenshin Takagishi and Seita Murai, and with Declan Smith sidelined by injury. The return of marksman Marquez Walters will help ease those losses. Eastern Suburbs have added firepower with Alex Parsons and Andy Pengelly and look set to improve on last season’s fourth-place finish. Lions FC remain a threat, knowing how to deliver when it matters most. Wynnum Wolves, Peninsula Power, Brisbane City, and Gold Coast Knights all have realistic top-four hopes. It shapes up as a fiercely competitive campaign.“
Premiers: Lions FC
Champions: Eastern Suburbs
Top 4: Lions FC, Eastern Suburbs, Moreton City Excelsior, Wynnum Wolves
Paul Eyers – FQTV Commentator & 7NEWS Queensland Sports Reporter
“Moreton City’s incredible run last season, capped by their performance at the inaugural National Championships, shows they can mix it with Australia’s best NPL sides. They won’t miss a step and are my favourites to retain the crown. Lions FC have been close for a while, but after Moreton City’s 2025, it could be another season of “always the bridesmaid, never the bride.” Gold Coast Knights should have a stronger league campaign after their Kappa Queensland Cup final win, and Brisbane City have the pedigree to stay in the mix. A surprise could be the return of Brisbane Roar’s B squad. With promising youth poached from Queensland’s top clubs and momentum from the A-League, they could shake things up.“
Premiers: Moreton City Excelsior
Champions: Moreton City Excelsior
Top 4: Moreton City Excelsior, Lions FC, Brisbane City, Gold Coast Knights
