{
  "id": 2439550,
  "title": "Wildcard woes: Why the Crows are walking a tightrope",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/21/wildcard-woes-why-the-crows-are-walking-a-tightrope-2439550",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-08-21T21:48:08.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "ABC News AU",
    "slug": "abc-news-au",
    "url": "https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-08-22/adelaide-crows-walk-wildcard-tightrope-on-eve-of-afl-finals/107058378"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The Adelaide Crows find themselves in a precarious situation, walking a tightrope between wildcard scenarios and a potential exit from the top six. If the Lions, Hawks, Demons, or Cats do not lose their final round matches, the Crows could face a sudden death showdown with either Carlton or the Western Bulldogs. This is the first time in AFL history that a minor premiership could potentially lead to such a wildcard final. The Crows' head of football, Adam Kelly, has addressed fan's concerns about their performances, maintaining that their wins and losses are in line with other teams. However, pundits and fans alike question the club's ability to handle pressure and their selection decisions. The club's president, John Olsen, remains optimistic about the club's prospects, stating they are nearly there in their pursuit of a premiership. Despite numerous factors contributing to their underwhelming campaign, such as the unavailability of star players and personal issues, Adelaide has shown signs of improvement in recent games. However, questions remain about their game plan and its effectiveness in taking the club to the top.",
  "summary": "If Adelaide beats GWS on Saturday night, it could still face the precarious possibility of being both the first minor premier in the AFL to exit in straight sets and the first ever side to lose a wildcard final.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "ABC News",
        "title": "Wildcard woes: Why the Crows are walking a tightrope",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/21/wildcard-woes-why-the-crows-are-walking-a-tightrope",
        "published": "2026-08-21T21:48:08.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}