AFL Finals 2023 Week 1 betting picks & best odds

The AFL finals kick off this week with four games on the schedule. See our preview and betting picks for this week’s Australian football action.

Collingwood v Melbourne

Thursday, September 7 – MCG, Melbourne

The Collingwood Magpies put an end to talk of a late-season slump by defeating the Essendon Bombers with a 70-point victory in round 24.

On the other hand, the Melbourne Demons enter this match on the back of winning seven out of their eight games.

With both teams displaying form at the MCG throughout the season, we can anticipate a fierce battle to kick off the finals series.

The Magpies, who secured the minor premiership, are hard to ignore at the -117.65 price with Bovada.

Carlton v Sydney

Friday, September 8 – MCG, Melbourne

In the first elimination final, it will be Carlton against Sydney at the MCG.

This Friday night clash marks Carlton’s first appearance in the AFL finals after a decade.

Although both teams suffered defeats in round 24, their places in the finals were already secured due to winning streaks leading up to that point.

While lack of finals experience may pose a challenge for Carlton Blues, they can rely on a huge home crowd for support.

Considering their form throughout the season, it is difficult to overlook Carlton’s chances in this encounter at -200 with Australian bookmakers.

St Kilda v GWS Giants

Saturday, September 9 – MCG, Melbourne

The GWS Giants will be heading to Melbourne this Saturday for their match, against the St Kilda Saints, which’s the game at the MCG this weekend.

The Giants managed to secure a spot in the eight in their match of the season and are determined to maintain their recent good form.

The Saints narrowly held onto a home final by a margin of 0.7% resulting in them playing at the MCG of their usual home ground, Marvel Stadium.

It is expected that the Saints will focus on playing a style of football while the Giants prefer ball movement across the field.

The Saints have continuously surpassed expectations throughout the season and are again considered underdogs for this match by most betting sites.

Brisbane v Port Adelaide

Saturday, September 9 – Gabba, Brisbane

At the Gabba this weekend, the Brisbane Lions will host Port Adelaide Power with a home prelim at stake.

The Lions have been undefeated at the Gabba this season, which puts them in great shape for a shot at the premiership with two home finals.

The Power appear to have bounced from their slump between rounds 18-21, winning their last three matches and recapturing their form.

Brisbane’s record at home makes them hard to bet against here.

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