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

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Winless after two batterings to open the season, Essendon host North Melbourne in Round 3 at Marvel Stadium.

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 – discovery+ & Watch AFL / USA – Watch AFL

The prediction

It was expected to be a tough year for Essendon in the AFL and that is exactly how it is panning out in the early weeks of the season, with the Bombers following their Round 1 defeat by Hawthorn with a 63-point loss to Port Adelaide last week.

Giving up ten goals in both those performance, the Bombers have lost their last 15 games dating back to last season, and it is difficult to have any confidence in them right now.

North Melbourne, meanwhile, were stunned by West Coast last week, with the Eagles coming from 30 points behind to take the points at Optus Stadium.

The Kangaroos' defeat was as much to do with their inspired opponents as it was their own collapse though, and they will certainly fancy themselves to bounce back against what looks like one of the weaker teams in the AFL this year.

Essendon vs North Melbourne tip: North Melbourne to win