Collingwood Magpies vs Adelaide Crows Tips and Prediction
Collingwood made a statement in Opening Round and now return to the MCG looking to continue their strong record against Adelaide.
The Magpies have dominated this matchup in recent years and appear well positioned to extend that trend again.
How this game shapes up
Many tipped Collingwood to take a step backwards in 2026.
Instead, the Magpies delivered a vintage performance in their opener against St Kilda.
They suffocated the Saints with relentless pressure and controlled the tempo of the match through their midfield and defensive setup.
The Daicos brothers were again central to everything, with Nick collecting 41 disposals and Josh adding 36 in a dominant display.
Adelaide enter the season with unfinished business after their dramatic finals exit last year.
The Crows were minor premiers but suffered straight sets elimination, exposing weaknesses around stoppages and midfield speed.
While they remain a dangerous side on their day, the MCG has historically been a difficult venue for them.
Best Bets
Collingwood -4.5
The Magpies have won 11 of their last 12 meetings with Adelaide and their pressure-based style has repeatedly troubled the Crows.
Playing at the MCG only strengthens that advantage.
Josh Daicos 30+ Disposals
Daicos thrives in Collingwood’s ball movement structure and will again play a key linking role across half back.
He collected 36 disposals last week and looks well placed to reach 30 again.
What could go wrong?
Adelaide’s forward line has the potential to score quickly if the supply improves.
If the Crows can win the clearance battle and generate clean entries inside 50, they may be able to disrupt Collingwood’s defensive structure.
But the Magpies’ ability to control possession and pressure opponents into mistakes makes them extremely difficult to beat in this matchup.