Sydney vs Geelong Preview & Prediction | 2025 AFL | Regular Season | Round 23

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Sunday’s SCG clash is a crucial showdown with major ladder implications. Geelong aim to stay in the minor premiership race, while Sydney, out of finals contention, look to play spoiler with their finals hopes extinguished.
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
Sydney Swans (10th) are coming off their best win of the season, a well-deserved two-point victory over the Brisbane Lions. The performance was a showcase of the brand of football many expected from the Swans all year, built on high forward-half efficiency.
Geelong Cats (2nd) cruised to a comfortable 44-point win over Essendon without ever truly hitting top gear. The ability to win so convincingly while being "a bit off" is the hallmark of a top-tier side.
Sydney Swans superstar Isaac Heeney was the architect of the victory over Brisbane. Playing a mix of midfield and forward, he was unstoppable, kicking his third bag of five goals for the season in a clear match-winning performance.
Geelong Cats midfielder Bailey Smith was a dominant force in the win against Essendon. He was prolific at the contest, racking up 31 disposals and driving the ball forward with an impressive 738 metres gained.
Sydney holds a recent advantage at the SCG, having defeated Geelong by 30 points in their Round 13 clash in 2024. The recent history is otherwise mixed, with the teams playing out a draw in 2023, and Geelong recording a thumping 93-point victory in their other 2023 encounter at GMHBA Stadium.
This is a danger game for Geelong. Sydney, riding high on confidence after upsetting Brisbane, will be fired up to strike again. With a strong SCG record, Sydney has a genuine chance to cause a top four shake-up. Geelong have more to play for however and despite the long trip, they should get the points.
Sydney vs Geelong tip: Geelong to win