Richmond vs Carlton Preview & Prediction | 2025 AFL | Regular Season | Round 1
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Old rivals Richmond and Carlton meet at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Thursday, March 13th, with a one-sided affair expected.
Kick-off date/time: Thursday 13th 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
Richmond find itself in the midst of a major rebuild, coming off a dismal 2024 season where they won just two of their 23 home and away matches. The Tigers have invested heavily in youth, trading away experienced players like Liam Baker, Shai Bolton, and Daniel Rioli. They'll be fielding at least three debutants, including number-one draft pick Sam Lalor, alongside Luke Trainor and Harry Armstrong. However, injuries and suspensions have further weakened their lineup, with key players Dion Prestia, Josh Gibcus, and Noah Balta all unavailable.
Carlton, on the other hand, enter the season with high expectations after finishing eighth last year. The Blues are aiming to establish themselves as genuine premiership contenders. They'll be without star forward Charlie Curnow for this match, but have received a boost with Sam Walsh passing a fitness test. Father-son selection Lucas Camporeale is set to make his debut on the wing after an impressive pre-season.
Statistically, the matchup heavily favours Carlton. The Blues excelled in contested possessions last season, an area where Richmond struggled significantly. Led by reigning Brownlow Medallist Patrick Cripps, Carlton's strong midfield and quick transition play could prove overwhelming for the inexperienced Tigers.
While Richmond's youthful enthusiasm might keep them competitive early on, Carlton's superior experience and fitness are likely to see them pull away in the second half. The Blues' seasoned players should be able to capitalise on fatigue setting in among Richmond's younger contingent.
Carlton's class and depth should prove too much for a rebuilding Richmond side. Expect the Blues to win comfortably.
Tip: Carlton to win with -48.5 handicap
