Round 7 of the AFL calendar brings the ANZAC day Match for 2026. The biggest occasion of the regular season, over 90k are expected to be in attendance as Essendon vs Collingwood at the MCG.

In the wake of recent performances, both sides enter this clash with plenty of momentum.

Essendon has momentarily silenced critics of their rebuild following a dominant Gather Round win and a valiant effort against the Suns, while Collingwood is fresh off a thrilling comeback victory over arch enemies, Carlton.

Heading into such a huge occasion and high-pressure atmosphere, the Magpies hold the psychological edge.

They’re the most experienced team in the competition, with a roster that has seen it all. Collingwood’s pensioner Pies can be sluggish at times, but their experienced campaigners won’t be overwhelmed by the size of the occasion.

In a game often decided by who keeps their cool, that championship experience could be the deciding factor between the winners and losers in this one.

For the latest team news, analysis, and expert insights, check out our Essendon vs Collingwood Round 7 prediction and preview below.

Essendon vs Collingwood Match Predictions and Betting Tips

Head-to-Head Prediction

The biggest game on the regular season schedule is here. The Bombers and Pies unite to commemorate and celebrate everything those brave souls did for us, so we can enjoy the game we all love.

All of a sudden, they’ll pack out the ‘G with a real intrigue as to whether Essendon can pinch this and whether Collingwood really are on the pirate’s plank.

Nick Daicos will need attention. It sounds obvious, but he’s been left alone more than he’s been tagged this season, genuine madness.

Andy McGrath could do the job; Sam Durham, too. Just make sure someone is accountable for him for 120 minutes, otherwise you’ll cop a massive performance like we've seen in previous ANZAC Day clashes.

Stop Nick, and we reckon you’ll win.

Easier said than done though.

Head-to-head prediction: Collingwood Magpies by 10 points.

First Goal Scorer Prediction

With Jordan Ridley sidelined for the Bombers, the Essendon defence loses one of its strongest interceptors. We expect the veteran experience of the Pies to take possession and capitalise early.

And who else but Jamie Elliot should be the man to score on such an occasion?

He’s proved time and time again that he’s capable of clutch moments and his leading patterns should see him find space in the pocket to open the scoring.

Jamie Elliot to open the scoring and send 90 000 spectators wild.

Betting tip: Jamie Elliott.

Most Disposals Prediction

Whether you love him or hate him, there is no denying that Nick Daicos is a freak of nature. Coming off a ridiculous 39-disposal haul against the Blues, he is the undisputed heartbeat of Collingwood's transition play.

Daicos has by far the highest average disposals in the league with 36 (next best is North’s Harry Sheezel on 32.8).

You’d be throwing cash away to put money on anyone else here. He’s in for another huge performance at the G.

Betting tip: Nick Daicos.

ANZAC Day Medal Prediction

It’s hard to look past the golden child of the AFL for the afternoon’s highest individual honour. Nick Daicos has a penchant for performing when the lights are brightest. 

If the Magpies are to secure their fifth consecutive ANZAC Day victory, it will likely be on the back of another masterclass from number 35.

Let’s be real, whether he’s the best on Saturday or not, the officials are pretty likely to give it to him anyway.

Betting tip: Nick Daicos to win the ANZAC Day Medal.

Odds are subject to change.*

Essendon vs Collingwood Predicted Teams

Essendon Predicted Team List

FB: Andrew McGrath, Ben McKay, Sullivan Robey

HB: Jacob Farrow, Zach Reid, Archie Roberts

C: Saad El-Hawli, Jye Caldwell, Jade Gresham

HF: Kyle Langford, Nate Caddy, Sam Durham

FF: Archer May, Peter Wright, Isaac Kako

FOLL: Lachlan Blakiston, Darcy Parish, Zach Merrett

I/C: Elijah Tsatas, Xavier Duursma, Archer Day-Wicks, Thomas Edwards, Todd Goldstein

Collingwood Predicted Team List

FB: Brayden Maynard, Jeremy Howe, Billy Frampton

HB: Josh Daicos, Dan Houston, Isaac Quaynor

C: Edward Allan, Scott Pendlebury, Patrick Lipinski

HF: Lachie Schultz, Nick Daicos, Beau McCreery

FF: Oscar Steene, Jamie Elliott, Daniel McStay

FOLL: Darcy Cameron, Jordan De Goey, Steele Sidebottom

I/C: Harry Perryman, Roan Steele, Angus Anderson, William Hayes, Tim Membrey

Essendon vs Collingwood Match Details

Date: Saturday, April 25, 2026

First Bounce: 3:20pm AEST

Location: MCG, Melbourne

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