Hawthorn host Essendon in Round 20 of the 2026 AFL season at MCG on Saturday. Read on for our full match preview, expert AFL betting tips, and best odds on the AFL this week.
The old rivalry renews with two ‘in-form’ sides?
The Hawks (12-1-5) buried Carlton and Richmond in successive weeks and remain firmly in the mix for a top-two finish. Mitch Lewis keeps rolling, up to 30 majors for the season after a five-goal outing against the Tigers.
Essendon (2-16) will take confidence from finally breaking a winless drought last weekend, stunning GWS on the back of manic pressure and 25 disposals from Sam Durham. That win at least lifted them off the bottom of the ladder on percentage.
It wasn’t all positive news with Xavier Duursma (hamstring) and Kyle Langford (suspension) needing to be replaced.
Jack Gunston has kicked 4+ goals in three of his last four home appearances at the MCG, something we’re happy to follow again this week.
Hawthorn vs Essendon Odds & Top Betting Markets
Here’s a breakdown of the latest odds and most popular betting markets for Hawthorn vs Essendon ahead of their Round 20 clash.
*odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change
AFL odds correct as of 24/07/2026 and subject to change. Event scheduled to start at 25/07/2026 4:15pm AEST.
| Team | Odds | |
|---|---|---|
| Hawthorn to win by 40+ | 1.36 | Bet Now |
| Hawthorn to win by 1-39 | 3.05 | Bet Now |
| Essendon to win by 1-39 | 14.00 | Bet Now |
| Essendon to win by 40+ | 176.00 | Bet Now |
| Draw | 176.00 | Bet Now |
AFL odds correct as of 24/07/2026 and subject to change. Event scheduled to start at 25/07/2026 4:15pm AEST.