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The Panthers defeated the Broncos 24-20 in a thrilling NRL opener, led by Nathan Cleary`s standout performance.

The 2025 NRL season kicked off with an electrifying clash at Suncorp Stadium, where the Penrith Panthers triumphed over the Brisbane Broncos with a score of 24-20. A crowd of 52,347 witnessed the defending champions secure their victory, thanks in large part to Nathan Cleary, who scored a try and kicked four goals, amassing a total of 12 points.

Despite a valiant effort from the Broncos, highlighted by Reece Walsh`s two tries, they fell short in the closing moments of the match. In other Round 1 action, the South Sydney Rabbitohs defeated the Manly Sea Eagles 28-16, with Latrell Mitchell shining by scoring a double and assisting another try. The Melbourne Storm also made a strong statement, overcoming the Canterbury Bulldogs 32-18, with Ryan Papenhuyzen making a successful return from injury, contributing a try and two assists.

The Cronulla Sharks secured a nail-biting 22-20 victory against the Parramatta Eels, with Nicho Hynes kicking the decisive conversion in the 78th minute. Following the first round, the Panthers, Rabbitohs, Storm, and Sharks lead the ladder with two points each, while the Broncos, Sea Eagles, Bulldogs, and Eels are still searching for their first points. Notable stat leaders include Reece Walsh with four tries and Nathan Cleary with 12 points.

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