Hawthorn vs Sydney Preview & Prediction | 2026 AFL | Regular Season | Round 2

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Sydney have started the 2026 season in fine fashion but some potential absences could spell danger for them against Hawthorn in Round 2.

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

After losing in Opening Round, Hawthorn head coach Sam Mitchell challenged his players to respond against Essendon over the weekend, and that's exactly what they did at the MCG, defeating the hosts convincingly by 62 points.

The performance of Zach Merrett was a particular plus point for the Hawks, with the 30-year-old ending the contest with 32 disposals.

Sydney, meanwhile, made it two wins from two with another ruthless display, seeing off reigning Premiers Brisbane Lions by a margin of 44 points.

The impressive victory was marred somewhat by injuries to key pair Isaac Heeney and Errol Gulden, and their potential absence will seriously hinder their prospects of going 3-0 to start the campaign.

Hawthorn, much improved over the weekend, will therefore smell blood here, and will fancy themselves to inflict the Swans' first defeat of the 2026 season.

Hawthorn vs Sydney tip: Hawthorn to win