The Stats Zone
March 20 2025, 16:36 · Trystan Pugh

Western Bulldogs vs Collingwood Preview & Prediction | 2025 AFL | Regular Season | Round 2

Western Bulldogs vs Collingwood Preview & Prediction | 2025 AFL | Regular Season | Round 2

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The Melbourne Cricket Ground will play host to a Round 2 clash between the Western Bulldogs and Collingwood on Friday, 21 March 2025. This match holds special significance for the Bulldogs, who will temporarily revert to their traditional name, Footscray, to commemorate their centenary year in the league.

Kick-off date/time: Friday 21st March, 2025: UK – 8:40am / US ET – 4:40am / US PT – 1:40am

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

Both teams enter the contest having won their respective Round 2 fixtures; the Bulldogs narrowly overcame North Melbourne, while Collingwood bounced back from a defeat with a dominant 91-point thrashing of Port Adelaide.

The Bulldogs have several key players sidelined, including Marcus Bontempelli, Adam Treloar, and Cody Weightman. Their depth will be severely tested against a near full-strength Collingwood side. However, the Bulldogs' recent acquisition, Matt Kennedy, showed promise in Round 1 and will need to step up again to bolster their midfield.

Collingwood's impressive form in Round 1 showcased their premiership credentials. New recruit Dan Houston has already made an impact in defence, while Tim Membrey proved a handful up top.

The match also presents an intriguing tactical battle. The Bulldogs will need to sharpen their forward efficiency, which was lacking against North Melbourne. Conversely, Collingwood's high-pressure game and slick ball movement were on full display last week, and they'll aim to replicate that performance.

While the Bulldogs' fighting spirit and the emotion of their centenary celebration could provide a boost, Collingwood's form and depth appear too strong to overcome. Expect a competitive first half, but the Magpies should pull away in the latter stages

Tip: Collingwood to win