Western Bulldogs vs Essendon Preview & Prediction | 2026 AFL | Regular Season | Round 4

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Boasting a 100% record so far in 2026, Western Bulldogs take on winless Essendon 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

Western Bulldogs return to action after a bye-week looking to continue their superb start to the 2026 campaign that has seen them win all three of their matches to date.

The Bulldogs most recently snatched victory from the jaws of defeat against Adelaide in Round 2, with Oskar Baker scoring a sensational goal two minutes from time to earn a six-point victory.

By complete contrast, Essendon have lost all three of their matches so far this season, extending their losing streak to 16 matches when you factor in the 2025 campaign.

The Bombers are certainly looking like one of the whipping boys right now, and there is simply no value in backing the Bulldogs to win this one.

Given the gulf in quality between the two teams, consider siding with the hosts to overcome a considerable handicap at Marvel Stadium.

Western Bulldogs vs Essendon tip: Western Bulldogs to win with -78.5 handicap