Collingwood vs Essendon playing football against each other at Melbourne Cricket Ground on Anzac Day creates an important cultural experience for Melbourne fans. Thousands of fans across the nation recognize this AFL clash as the premier sports event on their annual calendar because it unites millions through its storied interclub rivalry.
New and veteran fans alike can understand everything essential about the Collingwood vs Essendon rivalry starting from its background and including upcoming match expectations.
Whether you’re a diehard fan or a curious newcomer, here’s everything you need to know about Collingwood vs Essendon—the history, hype, and what to expect from the 2025 encounter.
🕊️ The Anzac Day Connection
Since 1995, the annual Anzac Day match between Collingwood vs Essendon has become one of the most respected and anticipated events in the AFL. Played in front of nearly 90,000 fans at the MCG, the game honors the spirit of the Anzacs—courage, mateship, and sacrifice—through the lens of elite Australian sport.
The day begins with a moving dawn service, followed by the Anzac Day Clash, where fans draped in black and white or red and black fill the stands in one of the most atmospheric matches of the year.
🏆 A Rivalry Steeped in History
The fierce Collingwood vs Essendon rivalry dates back to the early 1900s, but it was the creation of the Anzac Day match that gave it extra fire.
Notable Moments:
- 1995 – The inaugural Anzac Day match ends in a thrilling draw (111–111), cementing its place in footy folklore.
- 2009 – Essendon’s Zaharakis kicks a match-winning goal in the final moments.
- 2023 – Collingwood stages an epic fourth-quarter comeback, showcasing their dominant modern form.
As of 2025, Collingwood and Essendon have faced off in over 250 matches, with each game delivering intensity, unpredictability, and unforgettable highlights.
📍 2025 Match Preview – What to Expect
🗓️ Date: Friday, April 25, 2025
📍 Location: Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)
⏰ Time: 3:20 PM AEST
🎟️ Tickets: Available via Ticketek or AFL official website
🎥 Watch Live: Channel 7, Fox Footy, Kayo Sports
🔍 Key Match-Ups to Watch:
- Nick Daicos (Collingwood) vs Darcy Parish (Essendon) in the midfield
- Jamie Elliott vs Mason Redman
- Essendon’s attacking line vs Collingwood’s renowned defence
📈 Form Guide:
- Collingwood enters the match with strong form and a top-four ladder position.
- Essendon, while inconsistent, has a history of rising to the occasion during big games.
🧣 Fan Culture & MCG Experience
Every footy fan’s bucket list is to attend this game in person. Chants, roars, emotional tributes quake the air, and the MCG turns a sea of colors. Military tribute, national anthem and a moment of silence is part of a pre game ceremony which draws thousands of fans from hyping together.
Richmond Station nearby is packed full of excited supporters and the Melbourne pubs including The Corner Hotel and The Cricketers Arms before and after the game bobble on about footy.
🍻 Where to Go Before and After the Match
Here are some popular local spots around the MCG for a full Melbourne footy experience:
Before the Game:
- The Duke of Wellington – AFL-themed pub perfect for pre-game drinks
- Beer DeLuxe Federation Square – Great view, solid pub meals
- Gami Chicken & Beer (near Russell St) – Korean fried chicken + beer combo is a win
After the Game:
- The Imperial Hotel Bourke St – Often buzzing with post-match debate
- Transport Hotel – Ideal for a bite or a celebratory drink
🎟️ Tips for First-Time Attendees
- Arrive early – Gates open hours before; the pre-game ceremony is worth seeing
- Use public transport – Trams and trains drop off right near the MCG
- Wear your colours proudly – Team scarves and guernseys are the norm
- Bring sunscreen or rain gear – Melbourne weather can surprise you
- Respect the Anzac tradition – It’s a game, but also a day of national remembrance
📱 Social Media Buzz & Fan Reactions
Fans on Twitter, Instagram and TikTok share game day fits, chants, emotional reactions and memes, and the match tends to trend each year. Feeds are filled with hashtags such as #AnzacDayClash, #GoPies, #DonTheSash. Whatever the venue, you play a part in a countrywide celebration.
Anything but a game, Collingwood vs Essendon is a tradition wrapped with sport, culture and remembrance in the beating centre of the Melbourne heart. But another instalment in a rivalry that has come to define Australian Rules Football is coming up on 2025 Anzac Day.