The Game of Legends The AFL is still a remarkable reminder that sports never grow old; they simply change with the times. A charity competition turned into a cultural event at Marvel Stadium in 2025 when Cyril Rioli returned to the limelight in a manner reminiscent of a rock star returning to the stage after a long hiatus. In addition to being an athletic feat, his torpedo goal from the center square, which was sounded on the halftime siren, sent the crowd into rapture.
Conversations about Rioli in recent days had frequently focused on his absence, his arguments, and the wounds from previous battles at Hawthorn. But on this particular night, the brightness of his performance significantly diminished those shadows. His artistry was praised by supporters, pundits, and even other athletes, confirming the notion that genuine greatness endures remarkably. It felt like listening to a well-known song reimagined, powerful, and unforgettable, when I saw him in full swing once more.
Nick Riewoldt rallied his team with leadership that felt especially helpful in regaining the game’s momentum when it faltered, and Dan Gorringe, who scored the game-winning goal for the All Stars, played the part of hero with style. Victoria’s lineup, which was led by Luke Hodge and featured Gary Ablett Jr. and Brendan Fevola, showed flashes of genius throughout the field, but they were unable to stop the All Stars’ late charge. Dane Swan’s touches brought back memories of Collingwood’s heyday, while Fevola’s unpredictable kicking added drama.
Legends Game AFL 2025 – Full Match Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Name | E.J. Whitten Legends Game (Four ’N Twenty Legends Game for Prostate Cancer) |
| Year | 2025 |
| Venue | Marvel Stadium, Melbourne |
| Date | Friday, 5 September 2025 |
| Purpose | Charity match raising funds for prostate cancer research |
| Format | Victoria vs All Stars |
| Final Score | All Stars 3.13.7 (112) def. Victoria 3.11.11 (104) |
| Man of the Match | Cyril Rioli (All Stars) |
| Winning Moment | Dan Gorringe kicked the match-winning goal for the All Stars |
Victoria Squad (2025)
- Captain: Luke Hodge
- Coach: Tim Watson
- Players: Gary Ablett Jr, Luke Ball, Campbell Brown, Dylan Buckley, Travis Cloke, Luke Dahlhaus, Brett Deledio, Paul Dimattina, Brendan Fevola, James Frawley, Josh Gibson, Brent Harvey, Dave Hughes (celebrity), Michael Hurley, Chris Johnson, Steve Johnson, Stephen Milne, Bob Murphy, Jordan Roughead, Heath Scotland, Brad Sewell, Tommy Sheridan, Luke Shuey, Dane Swan, Easton Wood
All Stars Squad (2025)
- Captain: Nick Riewoldt
- Coach: Shane Crawford
- Players: Cyril Rioli, Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti, Andrew McLeod, Joel Patfull, Erin Phillips (AFLW star), Steve Hooker (Olympic gold medallist), Paul Puopolo, Mitch Robinson, Travis Varcoe, Adam Cooney, Jeff Farmer, Nick Davis, Andrew Embley, Daniel Gorringe, Thomas Baulch (Prime Train), Nick Cody, Chad Cornes, Ben Cousins (withdrew injured), Nick Daffy, Ollie Geale, Kate McCarthy, Matt Shirvington, Isaac Smith, Danny Southern, Zach Tuohy
This yearly competition is exceptionally successful because it strikes a balance between humor and competition. There are flashes of pure sporting genius that briefly take fans back to the grand final days, and there are belly laughs from celebrity cameos like Dave Hughes stumbling through plays. The game thrives on this dichotomy, providing families with highly adaptable entertainment that appeals to both younger audiences who value spectacle over skill and nostalgic fans.
Not only is the Legends Game entertaining, but it also serves a purpose. An excellent example of cause-driven sport is the AFL community’s decision to dedicate the event to prostate cancer awareness and research. The money generated by attendance, sponsorships, and media attention has a real effect and demonstrates how lighthearted games can have incredibly positive social effects. This match is a great example of striking a balance in a culture of sports where professionalism frequently takes precedence over personality.
The return of Cyril Rioli also had wider societal significance. His return to this stage felt like a step toward healing after years of arduous struggles over accusations of racism. His presence served as a reminder that legends are defined by the inspiration they continue to provide, not just by the games they have won. His participation was especially meaningful to Indigenous players and supporters, providing a moment of pride and visibility that strikes a deep chord.
There will inevitably be comparisons to international sporting events. The AFL Legends Game establishes continuity, much like NBA legends games that feature greats like Magic Johnson or tennis exhibitions that feature Roger Federer alongside up-and-coming talent. Because it blends eras and lets fans celebrate without the pressure of premiership stakes, it lets time fold in on itself. The nostalgia is very evident, the connection is instantaneous, and the joy is pure.
The audience’s response to Rioli’s torpedo during the game was instructive. Families stood together, strangers gave each other high fives, and social media was inundated with videos that quickly went viral. It demonstrated how the magic of sports extends beyond the scoreboard and forges enduring memories with spectators. The energy was felt even through screens for viewers on Channel 7 or 7Plus at home, which is further evidence of the event’s enduring appeal.
The stories that were revived on the field nearly overshadowed Victoria’s loss. Pubs started talking about Fevola’s erratic kicking, and Ablett Jr.’s appearance evoked memories of Geelong’s supremacy. In addition to guaranteeing victory for the All Stars, Rioli and Gorringe produced a spectacle that made fans remember why they adore this game.
