Essendon vs Western Bulldogs Preview & Prediction | 2025 AFL | Regular Season | Round 20

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The Western Bulldogs look to stay within reach of the finals with a hitout against the struggling Essendon.

Kick-off date/time:

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

How to watch online: UK – discovery+ & Watch AFL / US – Watch AFL

The prediction

Essendon (14th) is in a deep mire, coming off a demoralising 104-56 loss to GWS in Round 19. They are stuck in a long losing streak and have looked uncompetitive against the league's better teams, with their season effectively over.

The Western Bulldogs (9th) are coming off another close loss, fighting hard but ultimately falling 10 points short against the Brisbane Lions at the Gabba 86-76. The result continued their worrying trend of failing to secure wins against fellow finals contenders, with their record standing at a dismal 1-8 against top-eight teams.

A rare bright spot for Essendon in their loss to the Giants was debutant Liam McMahon. The young forward kicked the Bombers' first two goals of the match and provided a target, showing enough promise to suggest he can be part of their future plans.

For the Western Bulldogs, Bailey Dale was a prime mover in the loss to Brisbane. Playing across half-back, he was instrumental in generating attacking forays, finishing with 33 disposals and eight marks.

The Bulldogs have held a strong advantage over the Bombers in recent encounters. Their most recent clash in Round 10 of this season was a complete demolition, with the Bulldogs winning by 91 points.

Despite their struggles against the league's elite, the Bulldogs possess far too much midfield depth and forward-line firepower for this injury-depleted Essendon outfit. The Bombers will bring effort, but their lack of execution and top-end talent will be exposed.

Essendon vs Western Bulldogs tip: Western Bulldogs by 40+