Carlton vs Melbourne Preview & Prediction | 2026 AFL | Regular Season | Round 3

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It's a city derby at the MCG as Carlton host Melbourne in the final match of AFL Round 3.

Kick-off date/time:

How to watch on TV: UK – TNT Sports / USA – Some matches are televised on Fox Sports channels

How to watch online: UK – HBO Max & Watch AFL / USA – Watch AFL

The prediction

Carlton are back in action after sitting out Round 2, with their most recent encounter seeing them just about hang on to a four-point victory over Richmond two weeks ago.

That was a much-needed win for Michael Voss, who was a man under pressure before the season even began, but he will be right back into it here if his side fail to beat their local rivals.

Melbourne were outclassed by Fremantle last week, with the Demons losing by 48 points in what was Steven King's first away match in charge.

This is a real tough one to call between two sides who look fairly evenly-matched on paper. With an extra week to prepare for this match though, we're marginally backing Carlton at the MCG, especially as Melbourne were so thoroughly outplayed in their most recent outing.

Carlton vs Melbourne tip: Carlton to win