Essendon host Sydney in Round 23 of the 2026 AFL season at MCG on Sunday, 16th August at 4:40pm AEST. Read on for our full match preview, betting tips, and best odds.
The round closes with a $1.02 Sydney side aiming to lock in a home qualifying final against the embattled $14 Bombers at the ‘G.
The Swans were at their explosive best last week as they put 167 points on Port Adelaide behind Errol Gulden (39 disposals, one goal) and Charlie Curnow (five goals).
They will welcome star ruckman Brodie Grundy back into the side after his missed through parental leave.
Essendon, by contrast, are terrible. Thus the whole $14 thing.
Nick Bryan could return to face off with Grundy, but it will matter little as the Swans tune up for a potentially deep finals run.
Essendon vs Sydney Swans Odds & Top Betting Markets
Here’s a breakdown of the latest odds and most popular betting markets for Essendon vs Sydney Swans ahead of their Round 23 clash.
*odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change
AFL odds correct as of 13/08/2026 and subject to change. Event scheduled to start at 16/08/2026 4:40pm AEST.
| Team | Odds | |
|---|---|---|
| Sydney Swans (-61.5) | 1.90 | Bet Now |
| Essendon (61.5) | 1.90 | Bet Now |
AFL odds correct as of 13/08/2026 and subject to change. Event scheduled to start at 16/08/2026 4:40pm AEST.
| Team | Odds | |
|---|---|---|
| Sydney Swans to win by 40+ | 1.25 | Bet Now |
| Sydney Swans to win by 1-39 | 3.60 | Bet Now |
| Essendon to win by 1-39 | 19.00 | Bet Now |
| Draw | 201.00 | Bet Now |
| Essendon to win by 40+ | 226.00 | Bet Now |
AFL odds correct as of 13/08/2026 and subject to change. Event scheduled to start at 16/08/2026 4:40pm AEST.