The Stats Zone
March 5 2025, 12:45 · Trystan Pugh

Sydney Swans vs Hawthorn Preview & Prediction | 2025 AFL | Regular Season | Round 1

Sydney Swans vs Hawthorn Preview & Prediction | 2025 AFL | Regular Season | Round 1
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The 2025 AFL season kicks off with a blockbuster clash between the Sydney Swans and Hawthorn Hawks at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Friday.

Kick-off date/time: Friday 7th March, 2025: UK – 8:40am / US ET – 3:40am / US PT – 12:40am

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

This opening round match promises to be an exciting start to the new campaign, pitting two of last year's most thrilling teams against each other.

Sydney enters the contest as the reigning minor premier, having dominated much of the 2024 home and away season before stumbling late and ultimately falling to the Brisbane Lions in the Grand Final. The Swans will be eager to recapture their best form under new coach Dean Cox and set the tone for another premiership push.

Hawthorn, on the other hand, surprised many with their resurgence in 2024, narrowly missing out on a preliminary final berth. The Hawks have bolstered their defence in the off-season with the additions of Tom Barrass and Josh Battle, aiming to build on last year's success. 

Key players to watch for Sydney include Chad Warner, whose speed, power, and goal-scoring ability have become crucial to the Swans' gameplay. With Errol Gulden sidelined due to an ankle injury, Warner's impact will be even more critical.

Recent history favours Sydney, with the Swans handing Hawthorn a 76-point defeat in their sole 2024 encounter. However, the Hawks finished the previous season strongly, winning 12 of their last 15 matches, while Sydney won just six of their final 12 games.

Both teams have reasons for optimism heading into this clash. Sydney boasts a potent attack and will have home ground advantage, while Hawthorn's midfield strength and improved defence could pose problems for the Swans.

In what promises to be a closely fought contest, Sydney's home ground advantage and superior firepower should give them the edge. Expect a high-scoring affair with momentum swings throughout, but the Swans are favoured

Tip: Sydney Swans to win with -13 handicap