The 2025 Australian Football League (AFL) season kicks off on Thursday, March 13, 2025, with an eagerly awaited clash between traditional rivals Richmond and Carlton. This matchup marks the beginning of the first round, featuring several exciting games over the weekend.
Richmond and Carlton are set to light up the MCG under the Friday night lights, and there’s palpable buzz as fans gear up for the highly anticipated game. Other matches slated for Round 1 include Hawthorn versus Essendon, Geelong against Fremantle, Sydney taking on Brisbane, and Collingwood facing Port Adelaide, all pivotal moments to commence the new season.
SEN’s team of experts is weighing in with predictions for the games, encouraging fans to reconsider their expectations. Last week, Richmond's Jayden Short emerged as one of the players to watch, with indications he will secure over 20 disposals. Dropping below expectations last season, Short showcased his capabilities with 25 touches during Richmond’s pre-season opener against Collingwood. Fans hope he will replicate this performance and solidify his role as the driving force behind the Tiger defense.
“He’ll also likely take at least a handful of kick-ins, so the 20-disposal mark should be well within his sightings,” noted Andrew Slevison of SEN, fueling hopes for Richmond supporters.
The game also introduces rookie players for Richmond, Sam Lalor and Harry Armstrong, who are anticipated to kick at least one goal each during their first outing. "Lalor has been named in the forward pocket and should spend much of his time floating around the attacking 50," remarked Slevison. Similarly, the pressure will be on Carlton’s Harry McKay, who’s expected to step up as the focal point of Carlton's forward line, particularly with Charlie Curnow sidelined. The forecasts indicate McKay may tally at least two goals during this clash.
Pressure looms heavily for several teams as they enter the opening round. Dwayne Russell has ranked Collingwood at the top of his pressure meter, signifying the intensity surrounding their home game against Port Adelaide. After being markedly outplayed and outclassed last week, Collingwood fans are eager for redemption. "Collingwood can put the 'too old' stuff to bed this weekend with one good MCG performance," Russell stated. The team’s resiliency will be tested as they must tackle the ghosts of previous performances head-on.
Following Collingwood are the Sydney Swans, ranked number two on Russell’s list. After suffering defeat to Hawthorn in their season opener, Sydney desperately needs to rebalance their season against the reigning premiers, the Brisbane Lions. Russell pointed out the importance of not starting 0-2, especially at home, as they prepare to face greater challenges, including Fremantle next week.
At number three on the pressure meter is the Western Bulldogs, facing North Melbourne at Marvel Stadium Saturday night. Russell highlighted the precarious nature of their position, stating, “It won't take much for the heat to start intensifying around Bevo and the whole club.” He expressed concern about their vulnerability against North, who struggled last season, indicating significant stakes right out of the gate.
Further down the list, Adelaide holds the fourth position, with Russell declaring, “It's actually time for Adelaide to make the 8. It's time for Adelaide to win these exact games on a consistent basis.” This sentiment emphasizes expectations surrounding their match against St Kilda, which is regarded as one they must secure to solidify their standing as finals contenders.
Lastly, Melbourne finds itself at the fifth spot on the pressure meter as they prepare for their match against GWS. Russell acknowledged the challenges the Demons have faced, affirming, “No need to go through the details, you know the details for Melbourne.” It remains to be seen if they've made the necessary changes during the off-season to shift their fortunes.
Fans and analysts alike will keep their eyes on the weekend matches as outcomes will lay the groundwork for the season to follow. Experts expect action-packed encounters where teams look to define their legacies from the get-go.
The roar of cheers and the palpable tension of competition will echo through stadiums across Australia, heralding the eagerly awaited AFL season of 2025. The Round 1 fixtures promise to deliver not just excitement but also pivotal moments for teams as they strive to demonstrate their potential. Each match holds immense significance as clubs look to establish themselves, make statements, and rally their supporters behind them.
With several players under immense pressure and newcomers ready to make their mark, the stage is set for what promises to be unforgettable performances across the league. Keep your eyes peeled as Round 1 of the AFL season sets the tone for what could be one of the most riveting seasons yet.