Wakefield and Leigh will face off in the Super League play-offs for the first time this season, signaling a major change in their roles within the competition. Both teams have historically been considered underdogs, but recent seasons have seen them rise in prominence. Wakefield, now coached by Daryl Powell, has undergone a significant transformation since his arrival, supported by investment from owner Matt Ellis. The club secured the Championship League Leaders' Shield in 2024 and returned to the Super League for the 2025 season, achieving their best-ever Super League finish by placing fourth. However, they fell just short of winning the League Leaders' Shield, losing three of their final six games, including matches against Leeds and Wigan. Powell praised the club's progress, crediting the recruitment and coaching teams, and expressed the goal of reaching the Grand Final. Leigh, who rebranded as the Leopards in 2023, have also enjoyed consistent success, reaching the play-offs in every season since returning to the top flight. They won the Challenge Cup and have become a regular contender in the playoffs. Coach Adrian Lam highlighted the importance of the upcoming match, noting that the team has come close to the Grand Final in previous years but was narrowly defeated by Wigan twice. Despite a difficult start to the 2025 season, Leigh finished strongly, securing nine of their last 12 games. Lam remains optimistic, believing the team has put in the necessary effort and that there is still a chance for success. Leigh's Umyla Hanley has been selected for his second consecutive Super League Dream Team, despite playing only 17 games this season. Hanley credited his success to the support he received at Leigh, which helped him stay committed to the sport after limited opportunities with Wigan. He emphasized the value of the team's camaraderie. Meanwhile, Wakefield's Caleb Hamlin-Uele has also earned a spot in the Dream Team, despite making only 38 Super League appearances. He attributed his achievements to the support of his teammates and staff, and he is eager to contribute to Wakefield's play-off campaign. Both players' inclusion in the Dream Team reflects their impact and the growing competitiveness of their respective teams.