Good Friday in the 2026 AFL season includes a double-header which kicks off with the traditional clash between North Melbourne and Carlton at Marvel Stadium. This time around however, it’s the Kangaroos who enter this fixture with more wins under their belt for the season.
We bring you our full preview and expert tips for the North vs Blues 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!
North Melbourne vs Carlton Prediction & Betting Tips: AFL 2026 Round 4
North Ahead of the Ledger
North Melbourne enter this Good Friday clash at Marvel Stadium hunting a three and one start to 2026. They knocked over the Bombers by a couple of goals last week in what was a scrappy affair, however a necessary result after coughing up a big lead to the Eagles in Round 2. Finn O'Sullivan was the architect of that victory, racking up a career best 24 disposals and 11 contested possessions while also completely nullifying Zach Merrett. The only major setback is the loss of Tristan Xerri, who will serve a three match suspension for serious misconduct. Despite this absence, their midfield clearance game should still stand up against the Blues who are known for their contested brand.
Déjà Blue
Pressure is already mounting on Carlton following just one win from their opening three games. Michael Voss needs a response after his side suffered a catastrophic collapse against Melbourne on Sunday. The Blues surrendered a massive 43 point lead to lose by 23 points, highlighting a concerning trend of second half fadeouts. The most alarming factor for Blues fans is that they have a virtually healthy list to choose from, so there are no excuses for their poor form. In positive news, Wade Derksen will make his AFL debut this week, and he showed plenty of ability in their preseason games.
Recent H2H History
In last year's Good Friday fixture, the Blues handed out a brutal 82 point thrashing that dismantled the Roos. Carlton also claimed victories in both 2024 meetings. However, North Melbourne found redemption later in the 2025 season by securing an 11 point victory in Round 15. Funnily enough, it was the Blues who stormed home in that Round 15 clash by outscoring the Roos 35-0 in the final term to only just fall short of victory.
Roos or Blues? Here’s Our Best Bet
While Carlton start as favourites, backing them in their current state requires a fair amount of bravery. The Kangaroos are playing with renewed confidence and have finally proven they can finish games effectively, whereas the Blues are struggling to string together four consistent quarters. Carlton's defensive structures look vulnerable despite having their best personnel available, which is a major concern heading into a high-stakes fixture. Although losing Xerri is a significant blow for North Melbourne, they still possess enough grunt in the middle to match the Carlton bulls while also maintaining superior outside run. Given the trajectory of both sides, the Kangaroos look well-placed to cover the +8.5 spread.
North Melbourne +8.5
$1.90 (1.5 Units)
North Melbourne vs Carlton Prop Bet
After starting the season on fire with bags of 4 and 6 goals, Nick Larkey was a bit quieter last week with just 2 against the Bombers. However, he’s under the roof again at Marvel this week against another poor opposition that’s prone to giving up big scores, so there’s every chance Larkey puts up a big number here. I’m surprised to see 3+ goals north of $2 and am more than happy to have something on.
Nick Larkey 3+ Goals
$2.10
North Melbourne vs Carlton Same Game Multi
Nick Larkey 3+ Goals: For the reasons mentioned above in our prop bet.
Harry McKay 2 Goals: It’s been a tough start to life as the #1 key forward for McKay since Curnow’s departure, with only 4 goals from 3 games so far. However, he gets a look at one of the worst defences in the league this week and should cash in for at least 2.
Cooper Trembath 2+ Goals: What a start to his career it’s been for Trembath. 14 goals in 6 games and kicking 2+ in 5 of them. Still great odds.
Same Game Odds: $6.25 at Bet365
North Melbourne vs Carlton Match Info & Betting Odds
Date: Friday 3rd April
Time: 3:15pm AEDT
Location: Marvel Stadium, Melbourne
Odds: North Melbourne $2.28 vs Carlton $1.63
Line: +7.5
Points: 177.5
Where to Watch North Melbourne vs Carlton
You can watch the North vs Blues live and ad-free on Kayo Sports.
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