Second up on the Super Saturday slate for AFL Round 23 we’ll see North Melbourne host Geelong at Marvel Stadium. The Kangaroos are effectively out of the hunt for a finals berth, although recent form suggests a win for the Cats here won’t exactly be straightforward.
We bring you our full preview and expert tips for the Kangaroos vs Cats below, with odds thanks to UniBet!
North Melbourne vs Geelong Prediction & Betting Tips: AFL 2026 Round 23
Kangaroos High on Confidence
North Melbourne returns to Marvel Stadium looking to cause another major upset and finish their 2026 campaign with momentum. Currently sitting 13th on the ladder, Alastair Clarkson's men delivered a stunning 23-point victory over the Western Bulldogs last Thursday night, winning 100 to 77. That result broke an ugly four-year hoodoo against top eight opponents and kept their mathematical wildcard hopes alive (albeit just). Rewarding that spirited performance, the Kangaroos have opted for complete stability at the selection table, naming an unchanged line-up.
Cats Peaking at the Right Time
Geelong travels up the highway intent on securing their finals berth and building vital percentage. Chris Scott's side currently sits seventh on the ladder after handing out a 67-point thrashing to Essendon at GMHBA Stadium last weekend, comfortably winning 117 to 50. With the finals race incredibly tight, the Cats know they cannot afford to drop games against bottom half opposition. Bolstering their midfield structure, Geelong welcomes back captain Patrick Dangerfield alongside Mitch Edwards, providing crucial fresh legs as they look to lock in September action.
Recent History and Tactical Contrast
When looking at recent encounters, Geelong holds a distinct advantage. The Cats defeated North Melbourne by 49 points earlier this year in Round 8, recovering from a tight first half to pile on a massive scoreline of 135 to 86. Tactically, this fixture provides a great battle in the middle of the ground. The Kangaroos will rely on the clearance work of Luke Davies-Uniacke and Tristan Xerri to generate forward half territory. However, Geelong's ability to transition the ball with lethal efficiency on the outside will severely test a North Melbourne defensive unit that has leaked heavily at times this season.
Match Prediction and Best Bet
The Kangaroos showed immense defensive grit against the Bulldogs last week and will relish the chance to test themselves against another finals-bound opponent under the roof at Marvel Stadium. Geelong possesses the superior class and offensive firepower, making them rightful favourites, but putting away a spirited North Melbourne outfit on their home deck might prove harder than the market suggests. Expect the Cats to eventually wear down the hosts and secure the four points they desperately need, but the Kangaroos should battle hard enough to prevent a genuine blowout. Backing Geelong 1-39 is the sharpest value play here.
Geelong 1-39
$2.20 (1 Unit)
North Melbourne vs Geelong Prop Bet
We continue to go back to the well with Ollie Dempsey as he continues to get disrespected by the bookies in the goals market. He’s now kicked 2+ goals in five of his last six games which includes a bag of four last week. He remains excellent value to continue this trend.
Ollie Dempsey 2+ Goals
$2.30
North Melbourne vs Geelong Same Game Multi
Geelong to Win: This game should mean too much for the Cats to drop against a bottom half side. They should get over the line here.
Ollie Dempsey 2+ Goals: For the reasons mentioned above in our prop bet.
Paul Curtis 2+ Goals: He’s one of the in-form players in the competition. 2+ goals in five straight matches and three of those have been 3+ goal performances.
North Melbourne vs Geelong Match Info & Betting Odds
Date: Saturday 15th August
Time: 3:45pm AEST
Location: Marvel Stadium, Melbourne
Odds: North Melbourne $3.34 vs Geelong $1.33
Line: +20.5
Points: 183.5
Where to Watch North Melbourne vs Geelong
You can watch the Kangaroos vs Cats live and ad-free on Kayo Sports.
Back in our 2026 AFL Tips at UniBet!
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