SCG will play host to Saturday's Round 21 AFL game between Sydney Swans and Essendon. The game kicks off at 4:15 pm with Sydney Swans heading into the game as favourites with the bookmakers. Continue reading for our in-depth preview of the Sydney Swans vs. Essendon game and give you our free tips and bets.

When: Saturday August 2, 2025 at 4:15 pm

Where: SCG

Bet 💰: Bet On This Match HERE

Sydney Swans vs Essendon Odds

Sydney Swans vs Essendon Preview

Sydney will be out to restore pride when they host a battered Essendon side at the SCG on Saturday afternoon. The Swans’ faint finals hopes were extinguished last week after they coughed up a 35‑point lead in a 44‑point loss to a rampant GWS, halting their late‑season surge in crushing fashion.

Essendon’s slide has been even steeper. Last Friday’s 93‑point drubbing by the Bulldogs was their eighth straight defeat—their worst run since 2016. Injury has only deepened the pain, with 15 Bombers sidelined, including seven from the team that toppled Sydney back in Round 9, when Nic Martin racked up 38 disposals.

That earlier triumph feels a lifetime ago. With Essendon’s squad decimated, the Swans are primed to take full advantage and close their home campaign on a high.