The highly anticipated 2026 AFLW season is finally upon us with Round 1 getting underway this Sunday. The opening round of action features a split weekend, kicking off with a standalone season opener between St Kilda and Carlton at Marvel Stadium, before the remaining eight matches take place the following weekend.
We bring you our best bets for all nine AFLW Round 1 matches below and if you’re keen to follow our tips, then consider joining Dabble!
2026 AFLW Round 1 Betting Tips
St Kilda vs Carlton
Sunday 4:35pm AEST, Marvel Stadium
A compelling clash kicks off the 2026 season as St Kilda hosts Carlton. Adding to the occasion, this match forms the first half of a massive 'Spud's Game' double-header, taking place directly before the men's Round 22 fixture. While both teams will be desperate to launch their campaigns on a winning note, the Blues hold a slight edge with the bookmakers as they look to build upon a highly successful 2025.
The Saints can certainly draw some confidence from their previous meeting in October last year, where they earned a hard-fought 13-point victory over the Blues. However, with a new season comes a fresh slate. Carlton are coming off an impressive campaign where they reached a Preliminary Final, and they will be hungry to take that next step forward this year. Although the Blues are managing a few injuries heading into the contest, they still maintain a clear class advantage across the park. That edge in quality should see them overcome a spirited St Kilda outfit and cover the small line in a great season opener.
Carlton -4.5
$1.88 (1 Unit)
Hawthorn vs Melbourne Thursday
7:15pm AEST, IKON Park
Preview and best bet coming soon.
North Melbourne vs Geelong Cats
Saturday 1:00pm AEST, Marvel Stadium
Preview and best bet coming soon.
Richmond vs Collingwood
Saturday 5:05pm AEST, IKON Park
Preview and best bet coming soon.
Gold Coast SUNS vs Western Bulldogs
Saturday 7:15pm AEST, People First Stadium
Preview and best bet coming soon.
Essendon vs Brisbane Lions
Sunday 12:35pm AEST, Windy Hill
Preview and best bet coming soon.
Adelaide Crows vs Sydney Swans
Sunday 12:35pm AEST, Thomas Farms Oval
Preview and best bet coming soon.
Fremantle vs Port Adelaide
Sunday 2:35pm AEST, Cockburn ARC Oval
Preview and best bet coming soon.
GWS GIANTS vs West Coast Eagles
Sunday 4:45pm AEST, ENGIE Stadium
Preview and best bet coming soon.
