Opening Round of the 2026 AFL season includes a double-header on Saturday, with the second game seeing the Brisbane Lions take on the Western Bulldogs. The Lions will begin their quest for a three-peat, while the Bulldogs will be aiming to make an early statement after a disappointing 2025 campaign.
We bring you our full preview and expert tips for the Lions vs Bulldogs below. And if you’re keen to back in our tips, consider doing so at Bet365 - one of the biggest and best sportsbooks in the world!
Brisbane vs Western Bulldogs Prediction & Betting Tips: AFL 2026 Opening Round
Lions Begin Quest for a Three-Peat
The Lions enter 2026 as back-to-back premiers after claiming the 2025 flag. They finished the home-and-away season with a 16-6-1 record before navigating a tough finals path: a loss to Geelong in the qualifying final, followed by wins over Gold Coast in the semi-final, Collingwood in the preliminary final, and Geelong in the decider. Under coach Chris Fagan, the powerhouse midfield led by Lachie Neale, Will Ashcroft (who claimed back-to-back Norm Smith Medals in 2024 and 2025) and Hugh McCluggage remains intact. It's now bolstered by the addition of West Coast key forward Oscar Allen, who is set to make his club debut after a high-profile free agency signing. Preseason form was strong, culminating in a polished 25-point victory over Gold Coast in the AAMI Community Series (126-101), where Zac Bailey starred with 25 disposals and two goals despite several stars being rested. With home-ground dominance at the Gabba and a stacked roster, Brisbane is firmly positioned as the team to beat in their quest for a third straight premiership.
What Can We Expect From the Bulldogs?
Western Bulldogs head into the new season looking to rebound from a disappointing 2025, where they finished ninth with a 14-9 record and missed finals despite having one of the better lists in footy. That prompted scrutiny on coach Luke Beveridge despite his contract extension. The potent forward line is led by Aaron Naughton and established star Sam Darcy, with Jamarra Ugle-Hagan having departed to join Gold Coast via trade. Preseason delivered a confidence boost, including a commanding 44-point win over Hawthorn in the AAMI Community Series (117-73), highlighted by Tim English's dominant display of 23 disposals, 29 hit-outs, and two goals. Beveridge will demand a statement performance to signal the Dogs' return as genuine contenders.
Recent H2H History
Head-to-head history favours the Bulldogs overall since the clubs first met in 1925, but Brisbane now holds a 24-22 post-merger lead. Recent clashes have tilted heavily toward Brisbane, who have won five of the last seven encounters, including both 2025 meetings: a 21-point victory in Round 5 at Norwood Oval during Gather Round and a hard-fought 10-point win in Round 19 at the Gabba. The Lions' ability to handle the Bulldogs' midfield pressure and exploit forward entries has been key.
Lions or Dogs? Here’s Our Best Bet
This Opening Round blockbuster at the Gabba shapes as a high-octane affair, with both sides showcasing plenty of scoring power in recent years. Brisbane's premiership polish and home fortress should give them the upper hand in a fast-paced contest, but the Bulldogs' midfield grunt and forward threats will ensure it's competitive throughout. Expect an end-to-end shootout where the combined firepower pushes the total points over the 167.5 line.
Over 167.5 Points
$1.88 (1.5 Units)
Brisbane vs Western Bulldogs vs Prop Bet
Oscar Allen goes from one extreme to the other, leaving the wooden spooners in the Eagles and joining the back-to-back champs in the Lions. His talent is obvious and he should get some excellent service. Allen is great value for multiple goals here, particularly first up where his new teammates will likely look for him a bit more than usual.
Oscar Allen 3+ Goals
$3.75
Lions vs Bulldogs Same Game Multi
Oscar Allen 2+ Goals: For reasons mentioned above in the prop bet. Going a bit safer in the SGM for 2 goals.
Aaron Naughton 2+ Goals: Ended 2025 on an absolute heater and this should be a high-scoring affair, so I’m happy to go with Naughton instead of Darcy who’s under a bit of an injury cloud.
Cam Rayner 2+ Goals: Always good for a goal or two and should be entering his prime now. Great odds in their first hitout of the year.
Same Game Odds: $7.50 at Bet365
Brisbane vs Western Bulldogs Betting Odds & Match Info
Date: Saturday 7th March
Time: 7:35pm AEDT
Location: Gabba, Brisbane
Odds: Brisbane $1.42 vs Western Bulldogs $2.89
Line: -16.5
Points: 172.5
Where to Watch Lions vs Bulldogs
You can watch the Lions vs Bulldogs clash live and ad-free on Kayo Sports.
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