West Coast Eagles vs Sydney Swans AFL Round 4 Tips and Prediction

The Eagles have shown significant improvement in 2026, winning two consecutive matches and building confidence after a difficult 2025 campaign. Their ability to fight back into games has been impressive, overturning large deficits against both North Melbourne and Port Adelaide.

However, this matchup presents a completely different challenge.

Sydney enter the contest fresh off the bye and have already demonstrated their class this season with dominant wins over Carlton and Brisbane. Their game style is built on speed, transition and precise ball movement, allowing them to punish turnovers and generate high-quality scoring opportunities.

West Coast’s tendency to start slowly is a major concern. Against a side like Sydney, falling behind early is unlikely to be recoverable given the Swans’ ability to control territory and maintain pressure across four quarters.

Historically, this has also been a one-sided matchup. Sydney have won the past five meetings between the sides by an average margin of 84 points and remain unbeaten at Optus Stadium against the Eagles.

While West Coast’s improvement is genuine, Sydney’s structure, experience and scoring efficiency should prove decisive.

The Swans’ ability to generate scoring chains from turnover and control territory gives them a strong edge against a West Coast side that has struggled to start games.

McInerney has been one of Sydney’s most consistent performers, averaging 26 disposals this season and playing a key role in their transition game.

Mills continues to drive Sydney’s ball movement and regularly impacts games from half-back and through the midfield.

Curnow is building into the season and has a strong scoring record against West Coast, making him a key threat inside 50.

West Coast’s recent comeback wins highlight their resilience. If they can start strongly and limit Sydney’s transition game, they could keep the margin closer than expected.