Few rivalries in the AFL stir emotions quite like Collingwood vs Carlton. Year after year, this historic matchup captivates fans, ignites debate, and delivers some of the most hard-fought contests in Australian rules football. Heading into the 2025 AFL season, the anticipation is once again reaching fever pitch. Their first meeting is set for Round 4 on Thursday, April 3rd, at 6:30 PM AEST—a date and time already circled by both sets of supporters. Don’t miss out on buying Collingwood v Carlton tickets. Here’s what to expect from this early-season showdown.
Rivalry Revisited
Collingwood and Carlton boast one of the longest-standing rivalries in AFL history. Their storied contests date back to the VFL era in the late 19th century, with both clubs accumulating a passionate following that fuels the fierce on-field battles. From last-minute goals to bruising tackles, every Collingwood vs Carlton game is laden with drama and intensity. This is the sort of match you’d want to book AFL corporate suite tickets for.
Key historical highlights:
- The two teams have met in multiple Grand Finals, creating some of the most memorable chapters in AFL history.
- Both clubs regularly draw enormous crowds, reflecting the scale of support behind them.
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA – AUG 03: Players compete during the 2024 AFL Round 21 match between the Collingwood Magpies and the Carlton Blues at The Melbourne Cricket Ground on August 03, 2024 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Dylan Burns/AFL Photos via Getty Images)
Where They Left Off
Though the 2024 season wrapped up months ago, analysts and fans have spent the offseason discussing how each club performed and what might be next:
- Collingwood’s Momentum
After a solid 2024 campaign, the Magpies enter 2025 with high expectations. Younger players have matured, while veterans continue to provide leadership on the field. Collingwood’s coaching staff has emphasized a fast, pressure-oriented style that proved successful in the late stages of the previous season. - Carlton’s Rebuild
Carlton showed flashes of brilliance in 2024 but also struggled with consistency. With new signings in key positions and a focus on shoring up their defensive strategies, they aim to convert close losses into victories. The coaching group has reiterated the need for structured ball movement and improved transition from defence to attack.
Players to Watch
- Nick Daicos (Collingwood)
A rising star who continues to refine his craft. Known for his pinpoint disposal and game awareness, Daicos shapes as one of Collingwood’s main driving forces through the midfield. Check out some Nick Daicos highlights. - Patrick Cripps (Carlton)
The Blues’ inspirational skipper remains the heart and soul of the team. Cripps’s inside work and leadership will be crucial against Collingwood’s dominant midfield setup. - Key Forwards
Both sides feature talented forward lines capable of lighting up the scoreboard. Fans will keep an eye on the tall targets who can turn a tight match into a one-sided affair if they hit a hot streak early.
Tactical Battles
- Midfield Duel
The engine room of both clubs is stacked with talent. Expect fierce contested-ball battles, with clearance work around stoppages proving critical to scoreboard pressure. - Defensive Structure
While Collingwood relies on its high-press strategy, Carlton may counter with disciplined zone defence. The winner of this tactical standoff often dictates the flow of the match. - Wing Speed
Both teams have players adept at breaking lines on the wings. Success on the outside often forces the opposition to backpedal, opening up scoring chances. Keep an eye on how each side uses fast transitions from half-back to the forward arc.
Match Predictions
Predicting a winner this early in the season is always challenging. But with so much hype surrounding this clash, expect a high-intensity game right from the opening bounce. If Collingwood can apply forward pressure and lock the ball in their attacking half, they might pull away on the scoreboard. Alternatively, if Carlton’s midfield stands firm, preventing easy inside-50 entries, the Blues could capitalize on quick counter-attacks.
Final Thoughts
When Collingwood and Carlton face off in Round 4 of the AFL 2025 season, it won’t just be another match—it will be another chapter in the Carlton-Collingwood rivalry that has shaped Australian rules football for over a century. Both clubs have hungry fanbases desperate for early-season bragging rights, ensuring the atmosphere at the ground will be electric on Thursday, April 3rd.
Whether you’re a die-hard supporter or a neutral observer, this is a game not to be missed. As the AFL continues to grow and evolve, Collingwood vs Carlton remains a timeless classic—where pride, legacy, and the unrelenting pursuit of victory collide on the grand stage of Australian football.
Of course whoever loses this match will have the chance to redeem themselves later in the year – don’t miss out on Round 17 Carlton v Collingwood tickets.
