Penrith Panthers vs Parramatta Eels Prediction: Panthers to get a difficult win.

The 2022 NRL playoffs will begin with a match between the Penrith Panthers and the Parramatta Eels. Considering the 1/8 paths to the final in the postseason, both sides, especially the home club, which is the favorite, will be pushing themselves to the limit to secure a victory. We know, however, that the Eels will present a formidable challenge.

The 2022 National Rugby League champions are coming into this game off a 38-8 loss to the North Queensland Cowboys in their previous NRL matchup. However, losing to the Cowboys, however, can be attributed to the fact that they rested several starters who were otherwise scheduled to play. Since clinching the league in July, Panthers head coach Ivan Cleary has effectively utilized a deep bench in favor of playing time for the team's younger players. We expect the home league winner to be motivated to win because they are starting their stars. Looking at their last five NRL matches, they have done well by winning three despite losing two to the Melbourne Storm and one to the North Queensland Cowboys.

Last week's 22-14 victory over the Melbourne Storm was crucial in ensuring their postseason berth. The visitors are riding a three-game winning streak, but their work will be cut out for them in this contest. The last time the visitors lost was at home, a 26-0 thrashing at the hands of the South Sydney Rabbitohs. Despite defeating the Panthers in their first encounter in August, their unrelenting performance in the last few games will be crucial in this match. Even though the Eels' chances of winning are slim at BlueBet Stadium, we still think they will put up a decent fight and cover the -8 line.

With their first meeting in 2009, these two teams have a strong history. The Parramatta Eels have won the previous three meetings between the two teams. Before these games, though, the Panthers had already won two. Despite the Panthers' overwhelming statistical advantage, the Eels will present a formidable challenge because of their strong play of late.