Collingwood Magpies vs GWS Giants Prediction - Round 3 2026

The AFL circus rolls into Docklands this Friday night for a heavyweight bout that feels like it belongs in September. Collingwood host GWS at Marvel Stadium in what could very well be the match of the round.

Both clubs are looking to re-join the winners list, Collingwood’s early-season bye in Round 2 means their last performance was a disappointing 93-79 loss to the Crows in Round 1.

The AFL’s favourite son Nick Daicos was impressive despite the outcome, finishing with two goals from 33 disposals.

On the other hand, the Giants are now sitting at 1-2 after starting off the year with an impressive Opening Round win against the Hawks. Despite a last-quarter charge, the Giants were unable to overcome the Saints, losing 78-74.

The Giants will also be without Jack Buckley due to a concussion, adding another name to a defensive list already missing Sam Taylor. The last time these two sides met was over a year ago in 2025’s Opening Round.

The Giants dismantled the Pies with ease that day, winning 104-52. Finn Callaghan was on fire in that matchup, finishing the game with 33 touches and two goals.

This match also carries a bit of historical weight. Every time the fine wine that is Scott Pendlebury pulls on the boots, we are witnessing greatness; he moves one game closer to the all-time AFL games record this Friday.

So, can the pensioner Pies show they’ve still got the legs? Or will we hear a big, big sound from the West of the town in Docklands this Friday night?

For the latest team news, analysis, and expert insights, check out our Collingwood Magpies vs GWS Giants Round 3 prediction and preview below.

Collingwood Magpies vs GWS Giants Prediction and Betting Tips

Head-to-Head Prediction

Why this game is at Marvel Stadium is anyone’s guess, but here we are. GWS visited this venue a fortnight ago and were humiliated by the Doggies. Can they atone?

Collingwood have the oldest list in the league. They would’ve relished a week off, for a spot of crochet and lawn bowls, but will come into this one well rested and ready to take on Toby Greene and his Giants.

 We expect prime performances from Pendlebury, De Goey, Elliott and maybe even Sidebottom off a freshen up. We can’t wait to see Pendles wind back the clock and give us a vintage performance for his 427th top flight appearance.

For Greater Western Sydney, we aren’t convinced Toby Greene’s move on ball has clicked, while Jesse Hogan and Jake Stringer have been very quiet for a fortnight.

"Contract-season Jake" lasted a week, it seems – Stringer will have to bring him back if the Giants are going to win this game.

Can Finn Callaghan take the game away from the Pies around the ball and kickstart some GWS energy, or will the Daicos brothers run riot?

We’d prefer the former, but all things being equal, the Pies' experience at the MCG usually travels well to the fast track at Marvel.

Collingwood rightfully enter as favourites, their ability to control the tempo through brothers Daicos should be the difference.

Head-to-head prediction: Collingwood Magpies by 11 points.

First Goal Scorer Prediction

Jamie Elliott proved in last year’s finals that he is the man for the big occasion, and he looked sharp again in the early stages of 2026.

With the Giants missing key defensive pillars like Buckley and Taylor, Elliott’s leading patterns and craftiness in the pocket will be a nightmare to contain.

Expect the Magpies to look for him early to slot one from inside 50.

Betting tip: Jamie Elliott.

Most Disposals Prediction

Whether you love Collingwood or hate them, there is no denying that the golden child of the AFL Nick Daicos is a very, very good player.

Daicos is averaging 37 disposals so far this season and is the heartbeat of Collingwood’s transition play.

While the Giants will likely try to put someone like Finn Callaghan or Stephen Coniglio near him, Daicos’ ability to find space in a phone booth makes him the safest bet to lead the stats sheet for disposals, particularly if the Pies are successful in this match.

Betting tip: Nick Daicos.

Odds are subject to change.

Collingwood Magpies vs GWS Giants Predicted Teams

Collingwood Magpies Predicted Team List

FB: Billy Frampton, Isaac Quaynor, Brayden Maynard

HB: Dan Houston, Darcy Moore, Harry Perryman

C: Wil Parker, Nick Daicos, Roan Steele

HF: Lachie Schultz, Scott Pendlebury, Beau McCreery

F: Tim Membrey, Jamie Elliott, Dan McStay

Foll: Darcy Cameron, Jack Crisp, Jordan De Goey

I/C: Patrick Lipinski, Steele Sidebottom, Ed Allan, Ned Long, Jack Buller

GWS Giants Predicted Team List

FB: Jayden Laverde, Harry Himmelberg, Connor Idun

HB: Joe Fonti, Lachie Whitfield, Lachie Ash

C: Ryan Angwin, Clayton Oliver, Harvey Thomas

HF: Phoenix Gothard, Jake Riccardi, Josaia Delana

F: Toby Greene, Jesse Hogan, Jake Stringer

Foll: Kieren Briggs, Stephen Coniglio, Finn Callaghan

I/C: Xavier O’Halloran, Harry Rowston, Callum Brown, Max Gruzewski, Leek Aleer

Collingwood Magpies vs GWS Giants Match Details

Date: Friday, March 27, 2026.

First Bounce: 7:40pm AEDT.

Location: Marvel Stadium, Melbourne.

How to Watch: Channel 7, Fox Footy/Kayo Sports.