Round 2 of the 2026 AFL season is here with 9 exciting matches across the long weekend. Let’s preview all the games and get Lilith’s expert tips for each matchup.
🏉 Collingwood vs Carlton – March 13, 19:10 AEDT
The Magpies host the Blues in the Thursday night blockbuster at the MCG. Both teams are looking to start the season with momentum after strong Round 1 performances.
Key Matchup: Scott Pendlebury vs Patrick Cripps. Two of the league’s premier midfielders battle for supremacy in the centre bounce.
Lilith’s Tip: Collingwood by 18 points. Home advantage and the Magpies’ experienced midfield should control the game.
🏉 Richmond vs Essendon – March 14, 14:10 AEDT
Richmond hosts Essendon at the MCG in a traditional rivalry matchup. The Tigers will look to use their home ground advantage against a Bombers side eager to prove themselves.
Key Matchup: Dion Prestia vs Zach Merrett. The battle of the small midfielders could determine inside 50s and scoring opportunities.
Lilith’s Tip: Richmond by 22 points. The Tigers’ pressure and home crowd should overwhelm the Dons.
🏉 Sydney Swans vs GWS Giants – March 14, 16:40 AEDT
The Battle of Sydney continues at the SCG. The Swans and Giants renew their local rivalry in what promises to be a physical contest.
Key Matchup: Lance Franklin vs Toby Greene. The goalkicking forwards lead their teams’ attacking efforts.
Lilith’s Tip: Sydney Swans by 15 points. Home advantage and the Swans’ structure should see them through.
🏉 Brisbane Lions vs Gold Coast Suns – March 14, 19:20 AEDT
The Queensland derby kicks off at the Gabba. The Lions host their state rivals in a match that always delivers intensity.
Key Matchup: Lachie Neale vs Noah Anderson. The captain midfielders set the tone for their teams’ contested ball efforts.
Lilith’s Tip: Brisbane Lions by 28 points. The Lions’ experience and home advantage should prove decisive.
🏉 Port Adelaide vs Adelaide Crows – March 15, 13:10 AEDT
The Showdown at Adelaide Oval. Port Adelaide and the Crows renew their fierce rivalry in the Sunday opener.
Key Matchup: Connor Rozee vs Rory Laird. The Port midfield star takes on the Crows’ co-captain in a battle for midfield supremacy.
Lilith’s Tip: Port Adelaide by 20 points. Home advantage and the Power’s structure should control the Showdown.
🏉 Geelong Cats vs Hawthorn – March 15, 15:20 AEDT
Geelong hosts Hawthorn at GMHBA Stadium. The Cats look to continue their strong form against a Hawks side building for the future.
Key Matchup: Patrick Dangerfield vs James Siciliano. The Cats’ superstar midfielder vs the Hawks’ key defender.
Lilith’s Tip: Geelong by 35 points. The Cats’ experience and home advantage should prove too much for Hawthorn.
🏉 Melbourne vs North Melbourne – March 15, 19:20 AEDT
Melbourne hosts North Melbourne at the MCG. The Demons look to build on Round 1 against their city rivals.
Key Matchup: Christian Petracca vs Ben Cunnington. The Demons’ star midfielder takes on the Roos’ experienced campaigner.
Lilith’s Tip: Melbourne by 42 points. The Demons’ class and structure should overwhelm the Kangaroos.
🏉 Fremantle vs West Coast Eagles – March 16, 16:10 AEDT
The Western Derby at Optus Stadium. Fremantle hosts West Coast in the Monday night season closer—one of the AFL’s fiercest rivalries.
Key Matchup: Nat Fyfe vs Andrew Gaff. The veteran Dockers captain takes on the Eagles’ midfield star.
Lilith’s Tip: Fremantle by 25 points. Home advantage and the Dockers’ structure should see them win the derby.
🏉 St Kilda vs Western Bulldogs – March 16, 19:10 AEDT
St Kilda hosts the Western Bulldogs at Marvel Stadium in the Monday night finale. Both teams will be looking to secure their first win of the season.
Key Matchup: Marcus Bontempelli vs Jack Steele. The Bulldogs’ captain and superstar midfielder takes on the Saints’ best midfielder.
Lilith’s Tip: Western Bulldogs by 12 points. The Bulldogs’ class and Bontempelli’s influence should see them home in a close contest.
Don’t forget to tune in for Collingwood vs Carlton tonight at 19:10 AEDT to kick off what promises to be an exciting Round 2 of AFL action!
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