NRL 2025 Betting Tips Round 1

The 2025 NRL season kicks off with a bang in Las Vegas — and no, this isn’t a poker game, it’s rugby league! Ricky Stuart’s Canberra Raiders take on Andrew Webster’s New Zealand Warriors in what’s shaping up to be the most talked-about round one clash. This historic match isn’t just about two teams; it’s the NRL’s big gamble on global expansion, with Sin City set to host the first of many thrilling showdowns. The NRL 2025 draw has been hotly debated, but this Vegas opener is guaranteed to set the tone.

Both teams have been sweating it out in NRL preseason training, sharpening their weapons for this star-studded battle. The Canberra Raiders will be looking to make a statement in their US debut, with a backline stacked with speed. Xavier Savage is the one to watch, and he’s a hot pick to score anytime in this game — expect him to light up the Vegas turf. Meanwhile, Andrew Webster's Warriors have a fanbase that’s hungry for success, and they’ll be out to ride the wave of momentum from their last season, relying heavily on their dominant forward pack.

Raiders' Strategy - Fast and Furious

Ricky Stuart will likely let his Raiders' speed do the talking in this matchup. With a backline that can shift gears quicker than a sports car, the Raiders will look to exploit any potential fatigue from the Warriors’ long journey to Las Vegas. Quick shifts, attacking kicks, and precision will be the Raiders' weapons as they put pressure on the Warriors’ defensive line. Savage will be lurking for any opportunity to cross the line, and the Raiders' attack will work overtime to create those chances.

Warriors’ Game Plan - Control and Conquer

Andrew Webster will be relying on his Warriors’ forwards to control the game, win the battle in the middle, and dominate possession and territory. Their kicking game will be a crucial aspect of their approach, pinning the Raiders deep in their own half and forcing them to work hard for field position. If the Warriors can maintain a solid defensive line, they could shut down the Raiders’ speed and keep the game at their pace. It’s a classic grind-it-out strategy that could stymie Canberra’s fast play.

Vegas Showdown - What’s at Stake

This isn’t just another NRL round 1 match — it’s a global stage for both teams to showcase their talents to an international audience. With Las Vegas now a regular stop for NRL international expansion, expect the action to be fast, furious, and loaded with storylines. Whether you're betting on Xavier Savage to score, or wondering if the Warriors can stifle the Raiders’ speed, this game is packed with NRL tips for the taking.

Showtime in Sin City - Raiders and Warriors Deal the First Hand of 2025