Opening round in the AFL concludes with an absolute blockbuster on Sunday night as the Saints host the Pies from the MCG in front of what is set to be a full house. The Saints are full of optimism after a massive recruiting drive in the off-season while the Pies are looking to stay in the top four mix.
We bring you our full preview and expert tips for the Saints vs Magpies 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!
St Kilda vs Collingwood Prediction & Betting Tips: AFL 2026 Opening Round
A New-Look St Kilda Takes Flight
St Kilda’s off-season was one of the most aggressive in the competition. Determined to turn potential into results after a 9–14 campaign in 2025, the Saints added a quartet of high-impact players in Tom De Koning, Jack Silvagni, Liam Ryan and Sam Flanders. Each brings a different dimension, De Koning strengthening the ruck and key position stocks, Silvagni adding versatility at either end, Ryan providing explosive forward pressure, and Flanders injecting polish and drive through the midfield.
Yet the player generating the most excitement at Moorabbin is Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera. The young star enjoyed a breakout 2025 campaign and looks primed to elevate his game again after a stunning pre-season outing against Essendon that produced 28 disposals and four goals. If Wanganeen-Milera continues to impact games with that level of creativity and composure, St Kilda’s attack could become one of the most watchable units in the competition. With momentum, fresh talent and a huge crowd behind them, the Saints will believe they can launch their season in style.
Pies Still Dangerous Despite Change
Collingwood’s recent history commands respect. A premiership in 2023 followed by a Preliminary Final appearance in 2025 confirms the Magpies remain one of the league’s powerhouses. However, the off-season has brought considerable change. The club farewelled several familiar names including Mason Cox, Tom Mitchell, Oleg Markov, Finlay Macrae and Ash Johnson, while veteran Will Hoskin-Elliott retired and key forward Brody Mihocek departed via trade to Melbourne.
The Magpies also enter Round 0 with injury concerns in defence, with captain Darcy Moore and veteran Jeremy Howe unavailable. Their absence leaves a significant leadership and structural void in the back half against a Saints forward line that suddenly boasts multiple new weapons. Still, Collingwood’s midfield remains elite. When these sides last met in Round 15 last season, Nick and Josh Daicos combined for 60 disposals and nearly 1,000 metres gained in a dominant display that powered a comfortable 108–74 win. If the Daicos brothers again control the tempo, the Magpies will remain a serious threat.
Saints or Pies? Here’s Our Best Bet
This game carries enormous early-season intrigue. St Kilda appear to be trending upward after an aggressive recruiting period and a promising pre-season, while Collingwood’s list turnover and defensive injuries introduce genuine uncertainty about how quickly they can find rhythm in 2026. The Saints will also enjoy what could be one of the largest home crowds in the club’s history for a home-and-away fixture, creating a big-game atmosphere that should energise the playing group.
Expect a high-intensity contest early as Collingwood’s experienced midfield looks to impose itself, but the Saints’ improved forward structure and attacking flair could prove decisive. With Wanganeen-Milera in scintillating form and new recruits adding fresh energy, St Kilda appear well positioned to capitalise on Collingwood’s defensive absences and start the season with a statement victory.
St Kilda to win
$1.90 (1.5 Units)
St Kilda vs Collingwood vs Prop Bet
Marcus Windhager looms as a strong value play to rack up possessions if his pre-season role continues into Round 0. Traditionally known for his tagging ability, Windhager was deployed across half-back in St Kilda’s practice match against Essendon and thrived in the role, collecting a remarkable 41 disposals while helping launch the Saints’ ball movement from defence.
Windhager 25+ Disposals
$2.15
Saints vs Magpies Same Game Multi
Hugh Boxshall 15+ Disposals: Big bodied inside midfielder who finished strong last year with games of 15-12-14-15-15, should be set for a bigger role this season
Cooper Sharman 2+ Goals: Was solid as the Saints prime target in the forward line for the majotiry of last season but should benefit from being 2nd tall behind Rowan Marshall.
Over 160.5 Points: Saints look to be playing a more attacking brand this season from what we've seen in the pre-season matches. Back them to score heavily on the large MCG surface.
Same Game Odds: $5.50 at Bet365
St Kilda vs Collingwood Betting Odds & Match Info
Date: Sunday 8th March
Time: 7:20pm AEDT
Location: MCG, Melbourne
Odds: St Kilda $1.90 vs Collingwood $1.90
Line: NA
Points: 169.5
Where to Watch Saints vs Magpies
You can watch the Saints vs Magpies clash live and ad-free on Kayo Sports.
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