Geelong vs Essendon Preview & Prediction | 2025 AFL | Regular Season | Round 22

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Geelong will be aiming to boost their percentage and press their case for a top two finish when they welcome a struggling Essendon to the GMHBA Stadium on Friday. 

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

Geelong (4th) were simply superb in Round 21, recording an 88-point demolition of Port Adelaide. Their forward line fired on all cylinders in a frightening display of offensive power, highlighted by a nine-goal third-quarter blitz. 

Essendon (15th) are coming off a hard-fought but ultimately disappointing 14-point loss to the Sydney Swans in wet and trying conditions at the SCG. The Bombers were let down by their inaccuracy in front of goal, finishing with a score of 7.12, and struggled to match Sydney's work rate. 

Geelong's superstar forward, Jeremy Cameron, put on another masterclass against Port Adelaide. He collected another six goals to take his season tally to 75 as he continues his quest to become the first player since 2008 to kick 100 goals in a season. 

Essendon midfielder Sam Durham was a standout performer in a beaten side against Sydney, finishing the match with 22 disposals and five clearances. The Cats are currently on an eight-game winning streak against the Bombers, which includes a 95-point thrashing in Round 14 this season at the MCG. 

It would be nothing short of miraculous to see any result other than a comfortable Geelong victory. The Cats are notoriously difficult to beat on their home deck, and with their forward line in such devastating form, the focus will likely be on the final margin and how many goals Jeremy Cameron can add to his season tally.

Geelong vs Essendon tip: Geelong to win by 60+ points