Carlton vs Hawthorn Preview & Prediction | 2025 AFL | Regular Season | Round 2

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The 2025 AFL season continues with a compelling Round 2 clash between Carlton and Hawthorn at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Thursday, March 20.

Kick-off date/time: Thursday 20th March, 2025: UK – 8:30am / US ET – 4:30am / US PT – 1:30am

How to watch on TV: UK – TNT Sports / US – Some matches are televised on Fox Sports channels

How to watch online: UK – discovery+ & Watch AFL / US – Watch AFL

The Prediction

Both teams enter this match with contrasting fortunes from their season openers.

Carlton are looking to bounce back from a shocking fade-out loss to Richmond in Round 1. The Blues' forward line could receive a significant boost with the potential return of two-time Coleman medallist Charlie Curnow, who has been pushing to play his first game of 2025 after undergoing minor knee surgery last month. Carlton must address their forward line issues, with or without Curnow.

Hawthorn, on the other hand, enter the match with momentum having won their first two matches of the season against Sydney and Essendon. The Hawks will be eager to continue their winning streak and capitalise on Carlton's vulnerable state.

Recent history favours Hawthorn in this matchup, with the Hawks winning 42 of their 73 encounters since 1980, including a dominant 74-point victory in their last meeting in Round 22 of 2024.

While Carlton will be desperate to secure their first win of 2025, Hawthorn's recent form and historical edge give them a slight advantage. The potential return of Charlie Curnow adds an element of uncertainty, but it may not be enough to overcome a confident Hawthorn side.

Tip: Hawthorn to win