Western Bulldogs vs North Melbourne Preview & Prediction | 2025 AFL | Regular Season | Round 1
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Both teams enter the new campaign with different expectations and challenges, setting the stage for an exciting season opener.
Kick-off date/time: Saturday 15th March, 2025: UK – 8:35am / US ET – 4:35am / US PT – 1:35am
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
Western Bulldogs are dealing with a significant injury crisis at the moment. Captain Marcus Bontempelli is sidelined with a calf issue, while Cody Weightman, Jamarra Ugle-Hagan, Liam Jones, Adam Treloar, and Jason Johannisen are also unavailable. Despite these setbacks, the Bulldogs showed promise in their pre-season, securing a win against Hawthorn that boosted team confidence.
North Melbourne, under the guidance of coach Alastair Clarkson, aim to improve on their disappointing 2024 season, where they managed only three victories. The Kangaroos have bolstered their squad with experienced recruits, including Caleb Daniel, Jack Darling, and Luke Parker, who are all expected to make their club debuts.
The Bulldogs' midfield, led by Tom Liberatore, will be crucial in setting the tone for the match. For North Melbourne, the performance of their new recruits and the impact of young talents like Harry Sheezel and George Wardlaw in the midfield will be pivotal.
It remains to be seen whether the Bulldogs can overcome their injury woes and maintain their seven-game winning streak against North Melbourne. The Kangaroos will need to break this streak, which has seen an average margin of 58.3 points in the Bulldogs' favour. While they are dealing with injuries, Clarkson warns against underestimating them, stressing that they remain a highly competitive team capable of adapting to challenges.
Despite their injury concerns, Western Bulldogs' recent dominance over North Melbourne and their ability to adapt to adversity gives them a slight edge.
Tip: Western Bulldogs to win
